blasphemy, blaspheme, blasphemous

Definition

In the Bible, the term “blasphemy” refers to speaking in a way that shows a deep disrespect for God or people. To “blaspheme” someone is to speak against that person so that others think something false or bad about him.

• Most often, to blaspheme God means to slander or insult him by saying things that are not true about him or by behaving in an immoral way that dishonors him.
• It is blasphemy for a human being to claim to be God or to claim that there is a God other than the one true God.
• Some English versions translate this term as “slander” when it refers to blaspheming people.

Translation Suggestions

• To “blaspheme” can be translated as to “say evil things against” or to “dishonor God” or to “slander.”
• Ways to translate “blasphemy” could include “speaking wrongly about others” or “slander” or “spreading false rumors.”

(See also: dishonor, slander)

Bible References

• 1 Timothy 1:12-14
• Acts 6:11
• Acts 26:9-11
• James 2:5-7
• John 10:32-33
• Luke 12:10
• Mark 14:64
• Matthew 12:31
• Matthew 26:65
• Psalms 74:10

Word Data

• Strong’s: H1288, H1442, H2778, H5006, H5007, H5344, G09870, G09880, G09890