ὀλιγωρέω

I despise, make light of

Definition

ὀλιγωρέω means to treat something as insignificant, to despise, or to make light of. It conveys the idea of holding someone or something in low esteem, often with a sense of disregard or neglect. In its single New Testament occurrence in Hebrews 12:5, it specifically refers to not taking lightly the Lord's discipline. The word implies a failure to give proper weight or serious consideration to something of importance, bordering on contemptuous indifference.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only once in the New Testament, in Hebrews 12:5, where the author quotes Proverbs 3:11 from the Septuagint. The context is a pastoral exhortation to the Christian community to endure hardship as divine discipline from a loving Father. The usage warns believers against 'making light of' or despising this corrective process, urging them instead to embrace it as proof of God's care and their legitimate sonship.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective ὀλίγος (oligos, G3641) meaning 'little, small, few' and the verb ὠρέω (ōreō) related to caring or regarding. Thus, the compound verb literally means 'to regard as little' or 'to care little for.' This etymological construction directly informs its meaning of assigning minimal value or attention to something.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it addresses the human heart's potential response to God's loving discipline. In Hebrews 12:5-11, to 'make light of' (ὀλιγωρέω) God's discipline is contrasted with the proper response of endurance and submission. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading by highlighting that the sin is not merely grumbling about hardship, but a deeper failure of perception—a contemptuous undervaluing of God's formative, fatherly intent. It connects to the doctrines of God's providence, sanctification, and the believer's adoption as a child of God.

In the Greco-Roman world, the relationship between a father and his son included rigorous discipline and training aimed at producing a virtuous and capable adult. A son who treated his father's correction with contempt (ὀλιγωρέω) was seen as profoundly disrespectful and foolish, jeopardizing his own development and honor. The author of Hebrews uses this culturally understood dynamic to frame the Christian experience of suffering, elevating it from random misfortune to purposeful paternal training.

καταφρονέω (kataphroneō, G2706) — to think down upon, scorn, despise (often stronger, with an overt attitude of superiority); ἐξουθενέω (exoutheneō, G1848) — to set at naught, treat as nothing, utterly despise (can imply complete rejection).

Word Details

Scripture References