In the Bible, hate is often defined as a strong aversion or intense dislike, particularly in the context of rejecting God’s commands or showing hostility towards others (1 John 2:9-11). It contrasts with love, which is emphasized as a fundamental principle in relationships with God and fellow humans (Matthew 22:37-40).
Scripture
16 There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him:
17 haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood,
18 a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil,
19 a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.
Biblical Definition of Hate
The Biblical definition of hate goes beyond mere emotional aversion; it often signifies a profound moral and spiritual deficit that leads to sin and the fracturing of relationships. In 1 John 2:9-11, the scripture highlights that anyone who claims to be in the light while hating a brother or sister is still in darkness, illustrating that hate is incompatible with a genuine relationship with God. The New Testament frequently underscores the necessity of love as a core tenet of faith. Jesus Christ, in Matthew 22:37-40, encapsulates the entire law in the command to love God and one’s neighbor, thus placing love at the forefront of human interaction and divine expectation.
Hate, therefore, can be viewed as a rejection of God’s character, which is inherently loving (1 John 4:8). The consequences of harboring hate can be devastating, leading not only to personal emotional turmoil but also to broader social discord, as seen in the admonitions against bitterness and malice found in Ephesians 4:31-32. The Bible consistently calls believers to confront hate within themselves and transform it into love, reflecting the heart of God’s covenant with humanity. In this sense, to hate is to stand against God’s commands, and every act of hatred is a step away from the divine path of righteousness and reconciliation that God desires for His creation.
The biblical understanding of hate is intricately connected to the concepts of justice and righteousness, often portrayed as an antithesis to love. For example, Psalm 97:10 posits that those who love the Lord must hate evil. This kind of hate is not directed at individuals, but rather at sinful behavior and injustice, indicating that a righteous anger towards that which opposes God’s will is necessary for true devotion. In this light, hate becomes a catalyst for fostering purity and encouraging a constructive response to moral failings, rather than a mere expression of personal animosity.
Furthermore, Proverbs 8:13 states that “to fear the Lord is to hate evil.” This highlights that one’s reverence for God naturally inclines them to detest what is contrary to His nature. Such a perspective urges believers to cultivate discernment in their attitudes and actions, steering away from hatred that leads to division and discord among people, towards a hate that is reflective of a longing for divine justice. The biblical portrayal of hate, therefore, reveals a nuanced complexity, where believers are called to engage in the world with love while simultaneously standing firmly against that which opposes God’s righteousness—inviting a transformative response that aligns with His heart.
The Contrast Between Love and Hate
In the biblical context, hate is often presented as the antithesis of love. This duality emphasizes that to hate is to reject the fundamental commandment of love that is central to the teachings of the Bible. Hate can manifest as a refusal to acknowledge the inherent worth of others, leading to division and strife. This contrast serves to highlight the importance of love as a guiding principle in human relationships and interactions.
The Consequences of Hatred
Biblical teachings often illustrate that hatred leads to destructive outcomes, both for the individual harboring hate and for the community at large. Hatred can foster an environment of conflict, bitterness, and ultimately, spiritual death. The Bible warns that harboring hate can corrupt one’s heart and lead to actions that are contrary to God’s will, emphasizing the need for reconciliation and forgiveness as antidotes to hatred.
The Call to Overcome Hatred
The biblical narrative encourages believers to overcome hatred through acts of compassion, understanding, and forgiveness. This call to action reflects a deeper understanding of human nature and the potential for transformation. By promoting love and empathy, the Bible advocates for a lifestyle that actively seeks to dismantle hatred, fostering unity and peace among individuals and communities.
How to Embrace Love and Compassion as a Christian
Embracing love and compassion as a Christian is truly at the heart of our faith, and it begins with understanding that these qualities are not just ideals but active choices we make every day. Reflecting on Jesus’ teachings, we see that love is not merely a feeling but a commitment to serve others, even those who may not love us back. Start by practicing empathy—put yourself in someone else’s shoes and seek to understand their struggles. This can be as simple as listening to a friend in need or volunteering your time to help those less fortunate. Remember, love and compassion often flourish in small, everyday actions; a kind word, a helping hand, or a moment of patience can make a world of difference. As you cultivate these virtues, you’ll find that they not only enrich the lives of others but also deepen your own relationship with God, who is love itself. So, let’s strive to be vessels of His love, allowing it to flow through us into the lives of those around us.
Bible References to the Definition of Hate:
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.
Matthew 5:43-48: 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.
Leviticus 19:17-18: 17 You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason frankly with your neighbor, lest you incur sin because of him.
18 You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the Lord.
Romans 12:17-21: 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 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.
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.’
Psalm 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!
Proverbs 10:12: 12 Hatred stirs up strife,
but love covers all offenses.
Luke 6:22-23: 22 “Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil, on account of the Son of Man!”
23 Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets.
Ephesians 4:31-32: 31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice.
32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Titus 3:1-3: 1 Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,
2 to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.
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.
1 Peter 3:8-12: 8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.
9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.
10 For “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit;
11 let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer.
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.