Galatians 5:20

KJV

Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,

KJV (with Strong's)

Idolatry {G1495}, witchcraft {G5331}, hatred {G2189}, variance {G2054}, emulations {G2205}, wrath {G2372}, strife {G2052}, seditions {G1370}, heresies {G139},

Complete Jewish Bible

involvement with the occult and with drugs; in feuding, fighting, becoming jealous and getting angry; in selfish ambition, factionalism, intrigue

Berean Standard Bible

idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions,

American Standard Version

idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousies, wraths, factions, divisions, parties,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Galatians 5:20 continues Paul's comprehensive enumeration of the "works of the flesh," a stark contrast to the "fruit of the Spirit." This verse specifically lists nine destructive behaviors and attitudes—idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, and heresies—that characterize a life lived apart from the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. These vices highlight the deep-seated brokenness of fallen human nature and serve as a solemn warning against practices that undermine spiritual growth, communal harmony, and one's inheritance in God's kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Galatians 5:20 is embedded within a pivotal section of Paul's letter, following his robust defense of justification by faith apart from works of the Law. Having established the theological foundation of Christian freedom in Christ, Paul shifts in chapter 5 to the practical implications of this freedom. He urges believers not to use their liberty as an excuse for sin but rather to "serve one another through love" ([Galatians 5:13](/galatians/5-13 "Galatians 5:13 - Freedom in Christ")). The immediate context is the sharp dichotomy presented in [Galatians 5:16-18](/galatians/5-16-18 "Galatians 5:16-18 - Walk by the Spirit"), where Paul commands believers to "walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." Verses [Galatians 5:19-21](/galatians/5-19-21 "Galatians 5:19-21 - The Works of the Flesh") then provide a comprehensive catalog of these "works of the flesh," with verse 20 continuing the list of destructive behaviors that are antithetical to a Spirit-led life. This list is directly contrasted with the "fruit of the Spirit" presented in [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit"), emphasizing the transformative power of the Spirit in producing Christ-like character.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The church in Galatia was grappling with the influence of "Judaizers" who insisted that Gentile converts needed to observe aspects of the Mosaic Law, such as circumcision, to be truly saved ([Galatians 2:11-14](/galatians/2-11-14 "Galatians 2:11-14 - Paul Confronts Peter")). Paul's letter is a passionate defense of the gospel of grace, emphasizing that salvation is by faith alone. The "works of the flesh" listed in [Galatians 5:19-21](/galatians/5-19-21 "Galatians 5:19-21 - The Works of the Flesh") were not just abstract vices but prevalent issues in the Greco-Roman world and, regrettably, sometimes within early Christian communities. Idolatry and witchcraft (pharmakeia) were common pagan practices, deeply embedded in the religious and social fabric of the time. The other vices—hatred, strife, divisions—speak to the inherent challenges of human relationships and the tendency towards self-interest and factionalism, issues that could easily plague a nascent community struggling with doctrinal disputes and cultural assimilation. Paul's list serves as a moral compass, guiding believers away from the corrupting influences of the world and the flesh.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes in Galatians and Pauline theology. Foremost is the **contrast between flesh and Spirit**, a central motif in [Galatians 5](/galatians/5 "Galatians 5 - Freedom and the Spirit-Led Life"). Paul argues that true freedom in Christ is not license for sin but empowerment to live righteously through the Spirit. The "works of the flesh" underscore the **depravity of human nature** when left to its own devices, highlighting the need for divine intervention and transformation. The inclusion of "seditions" and "heresies" points to the theme of **church unity and purity**, emphasizing that internal divisions and false teachings are serious threats to the Body of Christ. Furthermore, the list serves as a practical exposition of **Christian ethics**, detailing behaviors that are incompatible with the new life in Christ and warning against actions that preclude one from inheriting the kingdom of God ([Galatians 5:21](/galatians/5-21 "Galatians 5:21 - Consequences of the Flesh")). This passage thus reinforces the call to a life of **sanctification** and spiritual maturity, lived in dependence on the Holy Spirit.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Idolatry (Greek, _eidōlolatreía'_):** From _eidōlon_ (idol, image) and _latreía_ (worship, service), this term literally means "image-worship." It encompasses the worship of anything other than the one true God, whether a physical idol, a concept, a person, or even the self. In a broader sense, it refers to placing ultimate trust, devotion, or priority in anything created rather than the Creator.
* **Witchcraft (Greek, _pharmakeía'_):** Derived from _pharmakeús_ (a drug preparer or sorcerer), this word refers to "medication" or "pharmacy" but, by extension, specifically denotes magic or sorcery, often involving the use of drugs, potions, or spells. In the ancient world, it was frequently associated with occult practices, attempts to manipulate spiritual forces, or gain knowledge through illicit means, rather than through God.
* **Seditions (Greek, _dichostasía'_):** From a derivative of _dís_ (twice) and _stásis_ (a standing), this term literally means "a standing apart" or "disunion." It signifies dissension, divisions, or the creation of factions within a group or community, leading to discord and separation.
* **Heresies (Greek, _haíresis'_):** From _hairéomai_ (to choose), this word originally meant "a choice" or "a school of thought" (e.g., a philosophical sect). In the New Testament, it evolved to describe a divisive party or "sect" (e.g., the Sadducees or Pharisees), and by implication, the "disunion" caused by such factions, often rooted in false or dissenting doctrines that threaten the unity and truth of the Christian community.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Idolatry, witchcraft":** These two terms represent direct affronts to God's sovereignty and holiness. "Idolatry" is the misdirection of worship, placing created things in the position due only to the Creator. "Witchcraft" (pharmakeia) refers to engaging with spiritual forces outside of God's will, often through manipulative or occult practices, seeking power or knowledge through means forbidden by God. Both undermine the exclusive worship and reliance on the one true God.
* **"hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife":** This cluster of vices describes destructive interpersonal attitudes and behaviors that erode relationships and communal harmony. "Hatred" (echthra) is deep-seated animosity. "Variance" (eris) refers to quarreling and contention. "Emulations" (zēlos) signifies intense jealousy or rivalry, a bitter competitive spirit. "Wrath" (thymós) denotes uncontrolled outbursts of anger or violent passion. "Strife" (eritheía) indicates selfish ambition, factionalism, or partisanship driven by self-interest. Together, these terms paint a picture of a community torn apart by internal conflict and self-centeredness.
* **"seditions, heresies":** These terms specifically highlight divisions within a community, particularly the church. "Seditions" (dichostasía) are literal divisions or factions, a "standing apart" that breaks unity. "Heresies" (haíresis) refers to chosen opinions or doctrines that lead to schisms, forming exclusive, dissenting parties based on false teachings or divisive interpretations, thereby fracturing the body of believers. These are direct attacks on the unity that the Holy Spirit seeks to foster.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs **Enumeration** in Galatians 5:20, continuing a detailed list of vices that began in the previous verse. This literary device serves to comprehensively illustrate the multifaceted nature of the "works of the flesh," leaving no ambiguity about the types of behaviors and attitudes that are contrary to a Spirit-led life. The sheer number and variety of terms underscore the pervasive influence of the fallen nature. Furthermore, there is an implicit **Contrast** at play, as this list of destructive behaviors is presented in direct opposition to the "fruit of the Spirit" that follows in [Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit"). This juxtaposition highlights the radical difference between a life dominated by the flesh and one transformed by the Holy Spirit. The terms themselves, particularly "idolatry" and "witchcraft," also carry strong **Symbolism**, representing not just specific actions but entire orientations of the heart away from God and towards self-reliance or illicit spiritual power.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Galatians 5:20 profoundly underscores the pervasive nature of sin and its destructive impact on both individual spiritual well-being and communal harmony. The vices listed are not merely isolated acts but manifestations of a heart not fully surrendered to God, demonstrating a fundamental rebellion against divine authority and a preference for self-will. The inclusion of "idolatry" and "witchcraft" points to the deep theological truth that sin often involves a misdirection of worship and a reliance on powers other than God. The subsequent list of interpersonal vices highlights how sin fractures relationships, creating enmity, division, and strife within the very communities God intends for unity and love. This passage serves as a critical reminder that true spiritual transformation, evidenced by the "fruit of the Spirit," is essential for overcoming the inherent tendencies of the flesh and living a life that honors God and builds up His church.

* [Romans 1:28-32](/romans/1-28-32 "Romans 1:28-32 - The Depravity of Humanity")
* [Colossians 3:5-9](/colossians/3-5-9 "Colossians 3:5-9 - Put Off the Old Self")
* [1 Corinthians 3:3-4](/1_corinthians/3-3-4 "1 Corinthians 3:3-4 - Divisions in the Church")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Galatians 5:20 presents a sobering inventory of behaviors that are antithetical to the Christian walk, urging believers to engage in honest self-examination. While some of these "works of the flesh," like overt idolatry or witchcraft, might seem distant from modern daily life, their underlying principles remain highly relevant. Idolatry, for instance, can manifest subtly as an excessive devotion to career, material possessions, social media, or even self-image, displacing God from His rightful place of supreme worship. The interpersonal vices—hatred, jealousy, wrath, and strife—are unfortunately ever-present in our relationships, communities, and even within the church. Recognizing these tendencies within ourselves is the first step towards spiritual growth. This verse calls us not merely to avoid these actions but to actively cultivate a life led by the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to transform our desires and produce the "fruit" that reflects Christ's character. It's a call to depend on God's power to overcome the flesh, fostering unity, love, and peace rather than division and conflict.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what subtle ways might idolatry manifest in my own life, drawing my devotion away from God?**
* **Which of the interpersonal "works of the flesh" (hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife) do I find most challenging to overcome in my daily interactions?**
* **How might I contribute to "seditions" or "heresies" (divisions or false teachings) in my community, even unintentionally, and how can I instead promote unity and truth?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to "walk by the Spirit" and actively resist the desires of the flesh, specifically concerning the vices listed in this verse?**

### FAQ
**What is the difference between "variance," "emulations," and "strife" in this list?**

Answer: While these terms all relate to conflict, they have distinct nuances. "Variance" (Greek: _éris_) refers to general quarreling, contention, or discord—a spirit of disputing. "Emulations" (Greek: _zēlos_) signifies jealousy, envy, or rivalry, often stemming from a bitter competitive spirit that resents another's success or possessions. "Strife" (Greek: _eritheía_) denotes selfish ambition, factionalism, or partisanship, where individuals or groups pursue their own interests, often through improper or divisive means. So, variance is the general state of discord, emulations is the internal emotion of envy that fuels it, and strife is the active, often self-serving, pursuit of division. Paul lists them to show the progression and interconnectedness of these destructive interpersonal behaviors that undermine unity, as seen in [1 Corinthians 3:3](/1_corinthians/3-3 "1 Corinthians 3:3 - Fleshly Divisions").

**Does "witchcraft" (pharmakeia) in this verse refer to modern medicine or pharmacy?**

Answer: No, in the context of Galatians 5:20, "witchcraft" (Greek: _pharmakeía_) does not refer to modern medicine or legitimate pharmacy. While the Greek word is the root of our English terms "pharmacy" and "pharmaceutical," its primary connotation in ancient biblical and Greco-Roman contexts was the magical use of drugs, potions, and spells, often in connection with occult practices, sorcery, and attempts to manipulate spiritual forces or gain knowledge apart from God. It refers to illicit spiritual practices rather than the legitimate healing arts. The Bible consistently condemns such practices as seen in [Deuteronomy 18:10-12](/deuteronomy/18-10-12 "Deuteronomy 18:10-12 - Abominable Practices").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Galatians 5:20, by detailing the "works of the flesh," starkly contrasts the fallen human condition with the transformative life offered in Christ. Jesus Christ perfectly embodied the antithesis of these vices; He was free from idolatry, never sought power through illicit means, and lived a life of perfect love, unity, and selflessness. His earthly ministry was characterized by reconciliation, not hatred or variance ([Colossians 1:19-20](/colossians/1-19-20 "Colossians 1:19-20 - Christ's Reconciling Work")). He consistently promoted unity among His disciples, praying for their oneness ([John 17:20-23](/john/17-20-23 "John 17:20-23 - Jesus Prays for Unity")), and warned against the divisive nature of false teachings ([Matthew 7:15-20](/matthew/7-15-20 "Matthew 7:15-20 - Beware of False Prophets")). The ultimate fulfillment of overcoming these works of the flesh is found in Christ's atoning work on the cross, where He bore the penalty for our sin, including these very expressions of our fallen nature. Through His death and resurrection, believers are "crucified with Christ" ([Galatians 2:20](/galatians/2-20 "Galatians 2:20 - Crucified with Christ")), empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit to put off the old self and live a new life characterized by the "fruit of the Spirit" ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")). Thus, Galatians 5:20 points to our desperate need for a Savior and the glorious reality that in Christ, we are set free from the dominion of the flesh to walk in newness of life.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Revelation 21:8

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.

1 Corinthians 11:19

For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.

Titus 3:10

A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;

2 Corinthians 11:19

For ye suffer fools gladly, seeing ye [yourselves] are wise.

Acts 8:9

But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:

Acts 8:11

And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries.

1 Chronicles 10:13

So Saul died for his transgression which he committed against the LORD, [even] against the word of the LORD, which he kept not, and also for asking [counsel] of [one that had] a familiar spirit, to enquire [of it];