In the Bible, the Greek word for hate is “miseo,” which conveys a strong aversion or dislike, often implying a preference for something over another. It is used to express a choice that prioritizes one thing over another, sometimes in the context of love for God versus love for worldly things (e.g., Luke 14:26).
Scripture
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’”
44 But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
45 so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.
46 For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?
47 And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same?
48 You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Greek Definition of Hate in the Bible
The Greek term “miseo,” found in the New Testament, carries the weight of a profound rejection or aversion that transcends mere dislike. It is often contextualized within the framework of prioritizing values and allegiances. For instance, in Luke 14:26, Jesus states, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple.” Here, “hate” is not used in a literal sense of animosity but as a hyperbolic expression illustrating the radical commitment required to follow Him. This verse implies that one’s love for God should overshadow and reconfigure all other loves, suggesting that true discipleship necessitates a re-evaluation of loyalties.
Moreover, the idea of “miseo” permeates other biblical narratives as well, underscoring the tension between divine allegiance and worldly attachments. In Matthew 6:24, the admonishment that “No one can serve two masters” reinforces the notion of prioritization; one cannot simultaneously cling to God and the materialistic desires of the world. The broader implication of “miseo” is that it challenges believers to examine their priorities and relationships. It invites a reflective stance on how one’s devotion to God radically transforms all other aspects of life, urging a detachment from anything that might compromise that primary commitment. This confrontation with “hate” is understood not in the traditional emotional sense, but as a directive towards an all-encompassing love for God that reshapes one’s values and actions.
The Greek term “miseo” contributes significantly to the understanding of relational priorities in the New Testament, illustrating a stark contrast between earthly attachments and spiritual devotion. For instance, in John 12:25, the concept is echoed with the directive, “Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.” Here, “hate” signifies a profound renunciation of self-centered desires, emphasizing that true life in Christ comes through a willingness to forfeit worldly attachments. This perspective invites believers to consider the broader implications of their choices and how a love for the divine can redefine the relationship one has with material existence.
Furthermore, the application of “miseo” resonates deeply in the teachings of the Apostle Paul. In Romans 9:13, Paul quotes God saying, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated,” which is a vivid portrayal of divine election. The usage here is complex; it highlights God’s sovereign choice and reflects the challenge of understanding divine love amid human relationships. Within this context, “hate” serves as a theological assertion about God’s priorities and His purpose for His people. In summation, throughout various passages, “miseo” encapsulates a call for unwavering commitment to God, challenging believers to reassess their relationships not merely through the lens of affection but through the radical lens of divine allegiance that transcends personal connections and societal norms.
The Concept of Hate as a Contrast to Love
In the Greek context, the term for hate (μισέω, miseō) often serves to highlight the profound nature of love. In biblical literature, love is frequently presented as the highest virtue, and hate is positioned as its antithesis. This contrast emphasizes the necessity of prioritizing love for God and others over any form of animosity or indifference. The use of hate in this sense can be understood as a call to reject anything that detracts from one’s commitment to love, thereby reinforcing the importance of devotion and loyalty in relationships.
Hate as a Call to Radical Discipleship
The Greek definition of hate can also be interpreted as a call to radical discipleship. In certain passages, the term suggests a need to renounce worldly attachments and prioritize one’s relationship with God above all else. This radical approach to discipleship implies that followers may need to distance themselves from familial or societal expectations that conflict with their spiritual commitments. Thus, hate, in this context, becomes a metaphor for the sacrifices required to fully embrace a life of faith and obedience.
Hate as a Reflection of Moral Choices
Another broader meaning of hate in the biblical Greek context relates to moral choices and the consequences of those choices. Hate can signify a rejection of certain behaviors, ideologies, or influences that are contrary to God’s will. This understanding positions hate not merely as an emotional response but as a deliberate decision to oppose what is deemed sinful or harmful. In this way, hate serves as a moral compass, guiding believers to discern between good and evil and to align their lives with divine principles.
How to Cultivate Love and Understanding in Faith
Cultivating love and understanding in your faith journey is a beautiful and transformative process that begins with intentionality and openness. Start by immersing yourself in Scripture, allowing the teachings of Jesus to guide your heart—His command to love one another (John 13:34) is a cornerstone of our faith. Engage in prayer, not just for your own needs, but also for the well-being of others, fostering a spirit of empathy and compassion. Surround yourself with a diverse community of believers; listen to their stories and perspectives, which can deepen your understanding of God’s love in action. Remember, love is not just a feeling but a choice we make daily, so practice kindness in your interactions, even with those who challenge you. As you nurture these qualities, you’ll find that your faith becomes a living testament to the love of Christ, drawing others to Him through your example.
Bible References to Greek Definition of Hate:
Luke 6:27-36: 27 “But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,
28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.
29 To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either.
30 Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back.
31 And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.
32 “If you love those who love you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them.”
33 And if you do good to those who do good to you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners do the same.
34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount.
35 But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil.
36 Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.
John 15:18-25: 18 “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.”
19 If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.
20 Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours.
21 But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me.
22 If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have been guilty of sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin.
23 Whoever hates me hates my Father also.
24 If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin, but now they have seen and hated both me and my Father.
25 But the word that is written in their Law must be fulfilled: ‘They hated me without a cause.’
Romans 12:9-21: Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.
10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.
11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.
12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.
13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight.
17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.
18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”
20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.”
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
1 John 2:9-11: 9 Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness.
10 Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, and in him there is no cause for stumbling.
11 But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, and does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes.
1 John 3:11-15: 11 For this is the message that you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.
12 We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous.
13 Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you.
14 We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death.
15 Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
1 John 4:19-21: 19 We love because he first loved us.
20 If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.
21 And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.
Proverbs 10:12-18: 12 Hatred stirs up strife,
but love covers all offenses.
13 On the lips of him who has understanding, wisdom is found,
but a rod is for the back of him who lacks sense.
14 Wise men lay up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool brings ruin near.
15 A rich man’s wealth is his strong city; the poverty of the poor is their ruin.
16 The wage of the righteous leads to life,
the gain of the wicked to sin.
17 Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life,
but he who rejects reproof leads others astray.
18 The one who conceals hatred has lying lips, and whoever utters slander is a fool.
Proverbs 15:17-18: 17 Better is a dinner of herbs where love is
than a fattened ox and hatred with it.
18 A hot-tempered man stirs up strife,
but he who is slow to anger quiets contention.
Proverbs 26:24-26: 24 Whoever hates disguises himself with his lips and harbors deceit in his heart;
25 When he speaks graciously, believe him not,
for there are seven abominations in his heart.
26 Though his hatred be covered with deception, his wickedness will be exposed in the assembly.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8: 1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
2 a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
3 a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
6 a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7 a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 a time to love, and a time to hate;
a time for war, and a time for peace.
Psalms 97:10-12: 10 O you who love the Lord, hate evil! He preserves the lives of his saints; he delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
11 Light is sown for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart.
12 Rejoice in the Lord, O you righteous,
and give thanks to his holy name!
Psalms 119:113-120: 113 I hate the double-minded, but I love your law.
114 You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.
115 Depart from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the commandments of my God.
116 Uphold me according to your promise, that I may live, and let me not be put to shame in my hope!
117 Hold me up, that I may be safe
and have regard for your statutes continually!
118 You spurn all who go astray from your statutes,
for their cunning is in vain.
119 All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross,
therefore I love your testimonies.
120 My flesh trembles for fear of you,
and I am afraid of your judgments.
Amos 5:14-15: 14 Seek good, and not evil, that you may live; and so the Lord, the God of hosts, will be with you, as you have said.
15 Hate evil, and love good,
and establish justice in the gate;
it may be that the Lord, the God of hosts,
will be gracious to the remnant of Joseph.
Malachi 1:2-3: 1 “I have loved you,” says the Lord. But you say, “How have you loved us?” “Is not Esau Jacob’s brother?” declares the Lord. “Yet I have loved Jacob”
3 but Esau I have hated. I have laid waste his hill country and left his heritage to jackals of the desert.
Matthew 6:24-25: 24 “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.
25 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?
Luke 14:25-27: 25 Now great crowds accompanied him, and he turned and said to them,
26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.
27 Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.
John 3:19-21: 19 And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil.
20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed.
21 But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.
John 7:7-8: 7 The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify about it that its works are evil.
8 You go up to the feast. I am not going up to this feast, for my time has not yet fully come.
John 12:25-26: 25 Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.
26 If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.
Romans 9:10-13: 10 And not only so, but also when Rebekah had conceived children by one man, our forefather Isaac,
11 though they were not yet born and had done nothing either good or bad—in order that God’s purpose of election might continue, not because of works but because of him who calls—
12 she was told, “The older will serve the younger.”
13 As it is written, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.”
Titus 3:3-7: 3 For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another.
4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,
5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,
6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
1 John 3:13-15: 13 Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you.
14 We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death.
15 Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.
Rev. François Dupont is a dedicated church minister with a wealth of experience in serving spiritual communities. With a calm and serene demeanor, he has been devoted to sharing the message of love, compassion, and tolerance for over two decades. Through his thoughtful sermons, compassionate counseling, and unwavering support, Rev. Dupont has touched the lives of countless individuals, allowing them to find solace and strength during difficult times. His serene presence and deep understanding of the human condition make him a trusted guide for those seeking spiritual nourishment and guidance.