Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Etymology: The term "blasphemous" is derived from the Greek word "blasphemia," which means "slander" or "speech injurious to another's good name." In a biblical context, it refers to irreverent or disrespectful speech or actions concerning God or sacred things. Blasphemy is considered a serious sin, as it directly challenges the holiness and authority of God. Biblical References: Blasphemy is addressed in both the Old and New Testaments, highlighting its gravity and the consequences associated with it. · Old Testament: In the Mosaic Law, blasphemy was a capital offense. Leviticus 24:16 states, "Whoever blasphemes the name of the LORD must surely be put to death. The whole congregation must stone him. Whether he is a foreigner or a native, when he blasphemes the Name, he must be put to death." This underscores the severity with which blasphemy was regarded in ancient Israel. · New Testament: In the New Testament, blasphemy continues to be a significant concern. Jesus addresses the issue of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, which He describes as an unforgivable sin. In Matthew 12:31-32, Jesus says, "Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the one to come." The Apostle Paul also encountered blasphemy in his ministry. In Acts 13:45, when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and began to contradict what Paul was saying, "blaspheming" him. This illustrates how blasphemy can also manifest as opposition to the message of the Gospel and its messengers. Theological Implications: Blasphemy is not merely a matter of speech but reflects a heart posture that is irreverent and rebellious against God. It is an affront to God's holiness and sovereignty. The biblical injunctions against blasphemy serve as a reminder of the reverence due to God and the sacredness of His name and works. Contemporary Considerations: In modern times, the concept of blasphemy extends beyond verbal expressions to include actions and attitudes that dishonor God. This can encompass a range of behaviors, from mocking religious practices to denying the divine nature of Christ. The call for Christians is to uphold the sanctity of God's name in all aspects of life, recognizing the profound significance of honoring God with both words and deeds. Related Concepts: · Sacrilege: While blasphemy specifically pertains to speech or actions against God, sacrilege involves the misuse or desecration of what is considered holy or sacred. · Profanity: Often used interchangeably with blasphemy, profanity generally refers to irreverent or disrespectful language, particularly when it involves the misuse of God's name. Conclusion: The biblical teaching on blasphemy emphasizes the importance of reverence for God and the sacred. It serves as a warning against the dangers of irreverence and the need for a heart aligned with the holiness and majesty of God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (a.) Speaking or writing blasphemy; uttering or exhibiting anything impiously irreverent; profane; as, a blasphemous person; containing blasphemy; as, a blasphemous book; a blasphemous caricature.Greek 989. blasphemos -- slanderous, evil-speaking ... Cognate: 989 -- what is blasphemous (reverses spiritual and moral realities). See 987 (). Word Origin a comp. ... blasphemous, slanderous. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/989.htm - 7k 988. blasphemia -- slander Library The Blasphemous Troops But if this be Too Blasphemous an Absurdity to be Supposed... Blasphemous Opinion Concerning the Origin of the Demiurge ... He Refutes the Wicked and Blasphemous Notion of the Heretics who ... Blasphemous Accusations of the Jews. Book v. Our Reply, in the Previous Books, to the Mad and ... It was Christ that Died the Father is Incapable of Suffering ... As it is Blasphemy to Pare Away the Divinity of Christ, So Also is ... Further Exposure of the Wicked and Blasphemous Doctrines of the ... He Next Skilfully Confutes the Partial, Empty and Blasphemous ... Thesaurus Blasphemous (4 Occurrences)... (a.) Speaking or writing blasphemy; uttering or exhibiting anything impiously irreverent; profane; as, a blasphemous person; containing blasphemy; as, a ... /b/blasphemous.htm - 7k Blasphemously (1 Occurrence) Horns (104 Occurrences) Blaspheming (9 Occurrences) Heads (439 Occurrences) Speaking (376 Occurrences) Seven (404 Occurrences) Oath (286 Occurrences) Witnesses (69 Occurrences) Induced (3 Occurrences) Resources Are intrusive thoughts sin? Are spontaneous violent, sexual, or blasphemous thoughts sin? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Antiochus Epiphanes? | GotQuestions.org What is the whore of Babylon / mystery Babylon? | GotQuestions.org Blasphemous: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Blasphemous (4 Occurrences)Acts 6:11 Revelation 13:1 Revelation 13:5 Revelation 17:3 Subtopics Related Terms |