### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **enybrízō**, represented by `{{G1796}}`, means **to insult**. It appears only **1 time** in the entire Bible, signifying its specific and severe application. The word is formed from `{{G1722}}` **en**, a preposition denoting a fixed position, and another root word for insult, emphasizing a direct and intentional act of contempt.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G1796}}` is in [[Hebrews 10:29]], where it describes one of the most serious spiritual offenses. It is the final act in a list of defiant transgressions against God. An individual is considered worthy of "sorer punishment" for having "trodden under foot the Son of God," counted the "blood of the covenant" as an "unholy thing," and finally, having **done despite** unto "the Spirit of grace." The context frames this insult not as a casual remark, but as a profound rejection of God's redemptive work.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same passage illuminate the gravity of this insult:
* `{{G2662}}` **katapatéō** (to trample down; figuratively, to reject with disdain): This word, used as "hath trodden under foot" in [[Hebrews 10:29]], describes an act of supreme contempt for the Son of God `{{G5207}}`, setting the stage for the insult against the Spirit.
* `{{G2233}}` **hēgéomai** (to deem, i.e. consider): This word is translated as "hath counted" and reveals the deliberate judgment involved. The person consciously esteems the sanctifying blood `{{G129}}` of the covenant `{{G1242}}` as something profane.
* `{{G2839}}` **koinós** (common, i.e. ... profane): This defines the nature of the profanity, as the person treats that which makes one holy `{{G37}}` as something **unholy**. This mindset is the foundation of the insult described by `{{G1796}}`.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1796}}` is immense, despite its single appearance. It underscores a crucial spiritual principle.
* **Insulting the Spirit of Grace:** The word is exclusively used to describe an offense against the Holy Spirit `{{G4151}}`, specifically the "Spirit of grace" `{{G5485}}`. This act is portrayed as the culmination of rejecting the Son and His covenant [[Hebrews 10:29]].
* **Contempt for Sanctification:** To **do despite** is directly linked to the act of profaning the "blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified." It is an act of treating the very means of salvation with defiant scorn [[Hebrews 10:29]].
* **Justification for Severe Punishment:** The verse poses a rhetorical question about "how much sorer punishment" `{{G5501}}` is deserved by one who commits these acts. The use of `{{G1796}}` is part of the justification for this heightened consequence [[Hebrews 10:29]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1796}}` is a highly specific term for a profound spiritual transgression. Its singular use in scripture highlights the extreme gravity of willfully insulting the Holy Spirit. It is not merely an offense, but an intentional act of contempt that rejects the Son of God, profanes the blood of the covenant, and treats the grace of the Spirit with disdain, thereby warranting a "sorer punishment."
TRV