Introduction

Understanding Greek words is vital for deeper biblical studies because it provides insight into the cultural, historical, and theological nuances of the original text. The Greek word ἐξουθενέω (exouthenéō) is significant because it conveys the concept of disdain or contempt. It is often used in the New Testament to describe attitudes of rejection or scorn, reflecting both social dynamics and theological themes relevant to early Christian communities and ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐξουθενέω, transliterated as exouthenéō [ex-oo-the-NEH-oh]
• Etymology: The word is composed of the prefix ἐξ- (ex-, meaning “out of”) and a derivative of οὐθενός (outhenos, meaning “nothing”). It literally means “to regard as nothing” or “to despise.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; present active indicative, first person singular.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To despise or scorn
• To treat with contempt or disregard
• To reject as worthless

Similar Words: ἐξουθενέω (exouthenéō) is similar to καταφρονέω (kataphronéō) [ka-ta-fro-NEH-o], which means “to look down upon” or “to despise.” While both terms imply a negative attitude toward someone or something, καταφρονέω emphasizes an arrogant disregard, whereas ἐξουθενέω suggests a complete dismissal of worth or value. Another related word is ἀθετέω (athetéō) [a-the-TEH-o], meaning “to nullify” or “to reject,” which is often used in legal or formal contexts to invalidate a claim or authority.

Further Insights: ἐξουθενέω is a compound verb formed with the prefix ἐξ- (“out of”) and a base meaning “nothing,” which gives it the force of treating someone or something as utterly worthless. It follows regular verb conjugation patterns in the present tense:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: The entry for ἐξουθενέω in BDAG is “to treat with contempt, despise, or disdain.” It notes that the term is used in contexts where something or someone is considered insignificant or unworthy of attention.

Thayers: Thayer’s lexicon defines ἐξουθενέω as “to make of no account” or “to regard as nothing.” It often appears in New Testament passages that discuss the rejection of Jesus or His teachings by the religious authorities or unbelievers.

Vines: Vine’s Expository Dictionary states that ἐξουθενέω denotes a strong action of rejection or scorn, particularly in relation to divine truths or moral teachings that are dismissed by those who are spiritually blind or rebellious.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides additional context for ἐξουθενέω in classical Greek, showing its use in rhetorical and philosophical texts to denote contempt or dismissal of an argument or person.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance describes ἐξουθενέω as “to despise utterly” or “to treat with contempt.” It highlights that the term appears frequently in the New Testament to illustrate rejection and disdain.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 23:11: “And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and mocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate.” (ἐξουθενήσας [set at nought])
• Romans 14:3: “Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.” (ὁ ἐσθίων τὸν μὴ ἐσθίοντα μὴ ἐξουθενείτω [despise])
• 1 Corinthians 16:11: “Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look for him with the brethren.” (μή τις οὖν αὐτὸν ἐξουθενήσῃ [despise])

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐξουθενέω (G1848: exouthenéō)

The Greek verb ἐξουθενέω (Strong’s G1848) means “to despise,” “to treat with contempt,” or “to regard as nothing.” It appears frequently in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature, often in contexts where individuals or teachings are dismissed or scorned. In New Testament passages, it commonly describes the attitudes of those who reject the teachings of Jesus or the apostles. Understanding this word sheds light on the cultural and theological dimensions of honor, shame, and worth in ancient times, both in Jewish and Greco-Roman contexts.

Did You Know?

The word ἐξουθενέω is often used in the context of moral teachings and philosophical debates in ancient Greek literature to challenge or undermine the authority of one’s opponent. It reflects a broader cultural practice of using language to assert dominance or authority in social, political, or religious discussions.