ἐμπαιγμός

mockery

Definition

The Greek noun ἐμπαιγμός refers to the act of mockery, scoffing, or derision, often involving scornful laughter or contemptuous treatment. In the New Testament, it specifically denotes the kind of severe, public ridicule and scorn directed at individuals, particularly those suffering for their faith. This mockery is not merely verbal teasing but implies a degrading and humiliating experience intended to shame the victim. Its sole biblical occurrence in Hebrews 11:36 describes the suffering of the faithful, placing 'mockings' alongside beatings, imprisonment, and other severe persecutions.

Biblical Usage

ἐμπαιγμός is used only once in the New Testament, in Hebrews 11:36, within the famous 'Hall of Faith' chapter. It appears in a list of severe trials endured by the heroes of the Old Testament. The context is persecution for righteousness, indicating that the mockery was a form of suffering inflicted because of their faith and testimony. This singular usage patterns with the epistle's theme of enduring hardship and shame for the sake of a greater, heavenly reward (Hebrews 11:26, 12:2).

Etymology

Derived from the verb ἐμπαίζω (empaizō, G1702), which means 'to mock,' 'to ridicule,' or 'to treat with contempt.' The verb itself is a compound of ἐν (en, 'in') and παίζω (paizō, 'to play like a child,' 'to sport'). Thus, ἐμπαιγμός carries the sense of 'mocking treatment' or 'being made a plaything' in a derisive manner. It shares a root with other words for mockery, such as the related noun ἐμπαικτής (empaiktēs, G1703), meaning 'mocker' or 'scoffer.'

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the cost of discipleship and the reality of suffering for one's faith. In Hebrews 11:36, ἐμπαιγμός is listed among severe persecutions, showing that scorn and ridicule are recognized as genuine and painful forms of persecution that the faithful must sometimes endure. Understanding this term enriches the reading of Hebrews 11 by emphasizing that the 'better resurrection' (Hebrews 11:35) promised to the faithful is worth enduring not just physical torture but also profound social shame and humiliation. It connects to the experience of Christ, who Himself endured mocking (Matthew 27:29, 31) and scorn, setting an example for believers.

In the ancient Greco-Roman and Jewish worlds, public mockery and scorn were powerful social weapons used to dishonor and discredit individuals. Being subjected to ἐμπαιγμός meant a severe loss of honor (timē) and social standing, which were paramount values in that culture. This form of ridicule was often a public spectacle, sometimes associated with judicial punishments or mob violence, designed to isolate and break the victim's spirit. Its inclusion in a list of persecutions in Hebrews shows it was considered a serious and damaging form of suffering, not merely harmless teasing.

μυκτηρισμός (muktērismos, G3456) — a more specific term for scorn or sneering, often involving a contemptuous turning up of the nose. ἐμπαικτής (empaiktēs, G1703) — the personal noun meaning 'mocker' or 'scoffer,' the one who performs the act of ἐμπαιγμός.

Word Details

Scripture References