ἐξουδενόω

I ignore, despise

Definition

ἐξουδενόω means to treat someone or something as utterly worthless, to despise or reject with contempt. It carries the sense of setting at naught, ignoring, or regarding as nothing. In its single New Testament occurrence in Mark 9:12, it describes how the Son of Man will be 'despised' or 'treated with contempt' by people, directly linking to the suffering of Jesus. This strong term implies not just mild disregard but a complete and active rejection, often involving public scorn or humiliation.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only once in the New Testament, in Mark 9:12. Jesus uses it in conversation with his disciples, referencing Old Testament prophecy (likely Isaiah 53:3) about the suffering Messiah: 'How is it written of the Son of Man, that he should suffer many things and be set at naught (ἐξουδενόω)?' The context is Jesus explaining his coming passion. The usage is prophetic and christological, describing the rejection he would face.

Etymology

Derived from ἐξ (ek, meaning 'out of' or 'utterly') combined with a form related to οὐδέν (ouden, meaning 'nothing'). Literally, it means 'to make out as nothing' or 'to reduce to zero.' It intensifies the idea of contempt or nullification. Cognates and related concepts include the adjective οὐδείς (no one, nothing) and the idea of complete invalidation.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it directly describes the rejection of Jesus the Messiah. It connects his suffering to Old Testament prophecy (e.g., the suffering servant in Isaiah 53:3, who was 'despised'). Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the depth of contempt and social rejection Jesus willingly endured for salvation. It underscores the humility of the incarnation and the scandal of the cross.

In the Greco-Roman world, honor and shame were central cultural values. To be 'set at naught' (ἐξουδενόω) meant public disgrace, loss of honor, and social exclusion. For a figure claiming authority (like the 'Son of Man'), such treatment was the ultimate humiliation. This contrasts with modern, often privatized, notions of disrespect, as it entailed a public, communal act of rejection.

καταφρονέω (kataphroneō, G2706) — to think down upon, despise, with a focus on the mental attitude of contempt; ἐξουθενέω (exoutheneō, G1848) — a variant spelling with identical meaning; ἀθετέω (atheteō, G114) — to set aside, reject, nullify, often in a legal or covenantal sense.

Word Details

Scripture References