Introduction

Understanding Greek words is vital in Biblical studies as they provide deeper insight into the text’s original meaning and context. The Greek word ἐνυβρίζω (Strong’s G1796) is particularly significant because it conveys the concept of mocking or insulting behavior. Understanding this word sheds light on the cultural and social implications of insults and mistreatment in both the New Testament and ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐνυβρίζω, enubrízō [en-oo-BREE-zoh]
• Etymology: Derived from the prefix “ἐν” (en, “in”) and “ὑβρίζω” (hubrízō, “to insult or treat shamefully”).
• Part of Speech: Verb
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To insult, mock, or treat shamefully
• To verbally abuse or show contempt
• To act insolently or outrageously toward someone

Similar Words: ὑβρίζω (hubrízō [hoo-BRID-zoh], “to mistreat”) is closely related and often overlaps in meaning with ἐνυβρίζω but lacks the specific nuance of verbal abuse. λοιδορέω (loidoreō [loy-dor-EH-oh], “to revile”) also implies verbal attack or abuse but is often used in more legal or formal contexts.

Further Insights: ἐνυβρίζω is a compound verb that combines the prefix ἐν- (“in”) with ὑβρίζω (“to insult”). This verb emphasizes the act of insulting or mocking someone directly, often with the intention of degrading or humiliating them. It is primarily used in contexts where verbal contempt or mockery is highlighted. Below is a table showing the present tense conjugation of ἐνυβρίζω:

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Notes that ἐνυβρίζω is primarily used to indicate mistreating or insulting someone, especially involving verbal abuse or mockery. It emphasizes a strong sense of contempt and humiliation directed towards another person.

Thayers: Describes ἐνυβρίζω as a verb that involves not only insults but also a sense of public humiliation. It highlights the degrading and demeaning aspects of such behavior, reflecting social dishonor.

Vines: Highlights that ἐνυβρίζω carries the idea of shaming someone openly, often to belittle or degrade them in front of others. It is commonly associated with actions meant to cause disgrace.

LSJ: The term ἐνυβρίζω is broadly applied to offenses that are verbal and extends to contexts of mocking or disdainful behavior in classical literature.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἐνυβρίζω as an act of insult or outrage, focusing on its verbal and emotional impact rather than physical aggression.

Scripture References

Classical Usage