The term "dissembleth" is an archaic form of the verb "dissemble," which means to conceal one's true motives, feelings, or beliefs; to feign or pretend. In the context of the Bible, dissembling is often associated with deceit, hypocrisy, and insincerity, which are contrary to the virtues of truthfulness and integrity upheld in Scripture.

Biblical References:

1. Proverbs 26:24-26 : "A hateful man disguises himself with his speech, but he lays up deceit in his heart. When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, for seven abominations fill his heart. Though his hatred is concealed by deception, his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly." This passage warns against those who dissemble by using gracious words to hide their true malicious intentions. It highlights the danger of deceitful speech and the eventual exposure of hidden wickedness.

2. Psalm 26:4 : "I do not sit with deceitful men, nor keep company with hypocrites." Here, the psalmist expresses a commitment to avoiding the company of those who dissemble, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals of integrity and truth.

3. Galatians 2:13 : "The other Jews joined him in his hypocrisy, so that by their hypocrisy even Barnabas was led astray." In this New Testament account, the Apostle Paul confronts Peter for dissembling by acting hypocritically regarding the Gentile believers. This incident underscores the destructive nature of dissembling within the Christian community and the need for consistency in one's actions and beliefs.

Theological Implications:

Dissembling is considered a sin because it involves deception and a lack of transparency, which are contrary to the nature of God, who is truth (John 14:6). The Bible consistently calls believers to live in truth and sincerity, reflecting the character of Christ. Dissembling undermines trust and can lead to division and strife within the community of believers.

Moral and Ethical Considerations:

From a moral standpoint, dissembling is seen as a violation of the commandment against bearing false witness (Exodus 20:16). It is an ethical issue that challenges individuals to examine their motives and ensure that their words and actions align with their professed beliefs. Christians are encouraged to cultivate honesty and integrity, avoiding any form of deceit or pretense.

Practical Application:

Believers are called to be vigilant against the temptation to dissemble, especially in situations where honesty may be challenging. Practicing transparency and authenticity in relationships, both within the church and in the broader community, is essential for maintaining a credible witness for Christ. By striving to live truthfully, Christians can foster an environment of trust and mutual respect, reflecting the light of the Gospel in a world often marked by deception.

False Profession.
... It is a sin that flattereth, that dissembleth, that offereth to hold God, as it
were, fair in hand, about that which is neither purposed nor intended. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/bunyan/the riches of bunyan/xx false profession.htm

A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to ...
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a holy life the beauty.htm

Dissembleth (1 Occurrence)
...Dissembleth (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 26:24 He that hateth dissembleth with his
lips, and layeth up deceit within him; (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS). ...
/d/dissembleth.htm - 6k

Dissembles (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Dissembles (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 26:24 He that hateth
dissembleth with his lips, but he layeth up deceit within him. (See RSV). ...
/d/dissembles.htm - 6k

Lays (30 Occurrences)
... He is a shield to those who walk in integrity; (WEB). Proverbs 26:24 He that hateth
dissembleth with his lips, but he layeth up deceit within him. (See NAS). ...
/l/lays.htm - 13k

Dissemble (2 Occurrences)
... (Root in KJV ASV WBS YLT). Proverbs 26:24 He that hateth dissembleth with his lips,
and layeth up deceit within him; (Root in KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS YLT RSV). ...
/d/dissemble.htm - 7k

Dissembling (1 Occurrence)

/d/dissembling.htm - 7k

Hateth (38 Occurrences)
... (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS). Proverbs 26:24 He that hateth dissembleth with his lips,
and layeth up deceit within him; (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS). ...
/h/hateth.htm - 16k

Layeth (76 Occurrences)
... (KJV DBY WBS). Proverbs 26:24 He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, and
layeth up deceit within him; (KJV JPS ASV DBY WBS). Proverbs ...
/l/layeth.htm - 28k

Hates (37 Occurrences)
... live. (WEB NAS RSV NIV). Proverbs 26:24 He that hateth dissembleth with his
lips, but he layeth up deceit within him. (See NAS RSV). ...
/h/hates.htm - 16k

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