καταφρονέω

I despise, scorn

Definition

The verb καταφρονέω means to despise, scorn, or look down upon with contempt. It often implies not just an internal attitude but an outward expression of disregard or insult, as seen when the Corinthians show contempt for the church of God in 1 Corinthians 11:22. In some contexts, it carries the sense of treating something as worthless or of little account, such as despising God's kindness in Romans 2:4. A distinct, positive usage appears in Hebrews 12:2, where Jesus is said to have 'despised the shame' of the cross, meaning He considered it unworthy of deterring Him from His mission.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used in various contexts across the New Testament. In the Gospels, it describes the impossibility of serving two masters without despising one (Matthew 6:24, Luke 16:13) and warns against despising 'little ones' (Matthew 18:10). Paul uses it to critique those who despise God's patience (Romans 2:4) or who show contempt for the poor in church gatherings (1 Corinthians 11:22). The Pastoral Epistles apply it to interpersonal relationships, instructing believers not to let others despise their youth (1 Timothy 4:12) and for slaves to not despise believing masters (1 Timothy 6:2).

Etymology

Derived from the preposition κατά (kata), meaning 'down' or 'against,' and the verb φρονέω (phroneō), meaning 'to think' or 'to have a mindset.' The compound thus literally means 'to think down upon' someone or something, conveying a judgment of inferiority or worthlessness. This root idea of a contemptuous mindset is central to its meaning.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it describes a serious human failing: contempt for what God values. It highlights the sin of pride and ingratitude, especially in despising God's patient kindness (Romans 2:4). Its use in Hebrews 12:2 is profound, showing Jesus's sovereign evaluation and rejection of worldly shame for the joy set before Him. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by revealing the active, dismissive contempt involved, which is stronger than mere dislike.

In the Greco-Roman world, honor and shame were paramount cultural values. To 'despise' (καταφρονέω) someone was a public act of assigning them the lowest honor status, treating them as socially worthless. This helps explain the strong language in passages like 1 Corinthians 11:22, where showing contempt for the poor was a severe breach of community and honor. Jesus's 'despising the shame' of the cross (Hebrews 12:2) would have been understood as a conscious rejection of the profound social disgrace associated with crucifixion.

ἐξουθενέω (exoutheneō, G1848) — to treat as nothing, nullify; often overlaps but can emphasize making something of no account. μισέω (miseō, G3404) — to hate; focuses more on intense aversion or hostility rather than contemptuous judgment.

Word Details

Scripture References