Topical Encyclopedia Blasphemy, in the context of Jewish law and tradition, is a grave sin that involves showing contempt or lack of reverence for God. The concept of blasphemy is deeply rooted in the Jewish understanding of the holiness and sanctity of God's name. The Hebrew Bible, or Tanakh, provides several references to blasphemy, emphasizing its seriousness and the severe consequences associated with it.Old Testament Context The prohibition against blasphemy is explicitly stated in the Mosaic Law. Leviticus 24:16 declares, "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, if he blasphemes the Name, he must be put to death." This passage underscores the severity of the offense and the communal responsibility to uphold the sanctity of God's name. The Third Commandment, found in Exodus 20:7 , also addresses the issue: "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not leave anyone unpunished who takes His name in vain." This commandment highlights the importance of reverence for God's name and the consequences of misusing it. Jewish Tradition and Interpretation In Jewish tradition, blasphemy is not limited to verbal expressions but can also include actions that desecrate the divine name. The Mishnah, a key text in the Jewish oral tradition, expands on the biblical injunctions, detailing various forms of blasphemy and the legal procedures for addressing them. The Talmud further elaborates on these discussions, emphasizing the need for witnesses and the careful examination of evidence in blasphemy cases. The Jewish understanding of blasphemy also extends to the concept of "Chillul Hashem," or the desecration of God's name. This occurs when a Jew's actions lead others to disrespect or question the sanctity of God and His commandments. Conversely, "Kiddush Hashem," or the sanctification of God's name, is achieved through righteous behavior that brings honor to God. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the charge of blasphemy is notably brought against Jesus by the Jewish religious leaders. In Mark 14:61-64 , during His trial before the Sanhedrin, the high priest asks Jesus if He is the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One. Jesus affirms, "I am," and the high priest tears his garments, declaring, "Why do we need any more witnesses? You have heard the blasphemy." This accusation stems from the belief that Jesus, by claiming divine status, was committing blasphemy according to Jewish law. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, also addresses the issue of blasphemy, warning against behaviors that could lead others to blaspheme God. In Romans 2:24 , he writes, "As it is written: 'God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.'" Here, Paul emphasizes the responsibility of believers to live in a manner that honors God and prevents His name from being dishonored. Historical and Cultural Impact Throughout history, the Jewish community has maintained a strong emphasis on the reverence of God's name, reflected in practices such as avoiding the direct pronunciation of the Tetragrammaton (YHWH) and using substitutes like "Adonai" or "HaShem." This deep respect for the divine name is a testament to the enduring significance of the biblical injunctions against blasphemy. In summary, blasphemy in Jewish thought is a profound violation of the sacredness of God's name, with roots in the Torah and elaborated upon in Jewish tradition. It is a concept that underscores the importance of reverence, respect, and the communal responsibility to uphold the holiness of God in both word and deed. Torrey's Topical Textbook Luke 22:65And many other things blasphemously spoke they against him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library He Proves Christ's Divinity from the Blasphemy of Judaizing Jews ... The Blasphemy of These Heretics is Worse than the Jewish Unbelief. Feast of the Dedication. The Jews Attempt to Stone Jesus and He ... Blasphemous Accusations of the Jews. And Leaving Jesus Within the Pr??torium, Pilate Went Out to the ... St. Ambrose Turns against the Novatians Themselves Another ... A Divine Saviour. Whether the Sin against the Holy Ghost is the Same as the Sin ... Pilate Therefore, Leaving Jesus Within the Pr??torium, Went Out to ... Of Blasphemy. One of St. Paul's Sayings. Resources Do Christians believe in three gods? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the World Mission Society Church of God, and what do they believe? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that Jesus is the Son of God? | GotQuestions.org Blasphemy: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Blasphemy Against the Holy Ghost Blasphemy of the Israelites, in Complaining Against God Blasphemy: Against the Holy Spirit, Unpardonable Blasphemy: Backslidden Ephesians Blasphemy: Charged Upon Christ Blasphemy: Charged Upon Saints Blasphemy: Christ Assailed With Blasphemy: Connected With Folly and Pride Blasphemy: False Indictments for of Naboth Blasphemy: False Indictments For: Jesus Blasphemy: False Indictments For: Jesus Falsely Accused of, Previously to his Trial Blasphemy: False Indictments For: Stephen Blasphemy: General Scriptures Concerning Blasphemy: Gives No Occasion For Blasphemy: Hypocrisy Counted As Blasphemy: Idolatry Counted As Blasphemy: Infidels, Who Used the Adultery of David As an Occasion to Blaspheme Blasphemy: Job's Wife, when She Exhorted Job to Curse God and Die Blasphemy: Peter, when Accused of Being a Disciple of Jesus Blasphemy: Proceeds from the Heart Blasphemy: Rabshakeh, in the Siege of Jerusalem Blasphemy: Saints Grieved to Hear Blasphemy: Shimei, in his Malice Toward David Blasphemy: The Depraved Son of Shelomith, Who, in an Altercation With an Israelite, Cursed God Blasphemy: The Revilers of Jesus, when he Was Crucified Blasphemy: The Wicked Addicted To Related Terms |
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