### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G2706 (καταφρονέω, *kataphronéō*) is a compound word derived from κατά (*kata*), meaning "down" or "against," and φρονέω (*phroneō*), meaning "to think," "to have understanding," or "to be minded." Synthetically, καταφρονέω literally means "to think down upon" or "to think against." This etymology reveals the core semantic range of the word: it signifies an internal cognitive judgment that results in holding someone or something in contempt, treating it as insignificant, or looking down upon it. The primary English translation, "despise," accurately captures this sense of deeming something as worthless, inferior, or deserving of scorn. It implies a deliberate act of the mind to devalue or disregard.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G2706 appears several times in the New Testament, consistently conveying a sense of contempt or disregard, though with varied objects and implications:
* **Devaluing Divine Principles or Persons:**
* In [[Matthew 6:24]] and [[Luke 16:13]], Jesus states that one cannot serve two masters, for he will "despise" (καταφρονέω) one and love the other. Here, "despising" implies a complete rejection and devaluing of either God or Mammon (wealth) in favor of the other, highlighting an exclusive allegiance.
* [[Romans 2:4]] asks if one "despises" (καταφρονέω) the riches of God's goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering. This refers to presuming upon God's patience, treating His grace as something of little account, and thus failing to be led to repentance. It signifies a dangerous spiritual blindness and arrogance.
* **Devaluing Fellow Believers or the Church:**
* [[Romans 14:3]] instructs believers not to "despise" (καταφρονέω) a brother who eats or does not eat certain foods. This warns against judgmental attitudes and looking down on fellow Christians over matters of conscience or non-essential practices, emphasizing unity and mutual respect within the body of Christ.
* In [[1 Corinthians 11:22]], Paul rebukes those who "despise" (καταφρονέω) the church of God by their selfish and disorderly conduct during the Lord's Supper. This indicates a profound lack of reverence for the sacred gathering and the spiritual significance of the communal meal, treating it with contempt.
* **Devaluing Legitimate Authority or Calling:**
* [[1 Timothy 4:12]] exhorts Timothy, "Let no one despise (καταφρονέω) your youth." This is a charge to Timothy to live and teach in such a way that his age does not become a reason for others to disregard his authority or message. It underscores the importance of living a life that commands respect, even when young.
* [[1 Timothy 6:2]] instructs believing slaves not to "despise" (καταφρονέω) their believing masters because they are brothers. The command emphasizes that the spiritual equality in Christ does not negate the social structures of the time, and respect for authority remains necessary.
* [[2 Peter 2:10]] describes false teachers as those who "despise" (καταφρονέω) authority. This highlights their rebellious and arrogant nature, showing contempt for established spiritual and possibly governmental leadership.
* **Jesus' Unique "Despising":**
* A profound and unique usage appears in [[Hebrews 12:2]], which describes Jesus, "who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising (καταφρονέω) the shame." Here, Jesus' "despising" is not a negative act of sin but a positive, resolute act of purposeful disregard. He looked *beyond* the ignominy and suffering of the cross, treating its shame as insignificant in comparison to the greater joy of accomplishing redemption and glorifying the Father. This demonstrates a supreme focus and determination that rendered the immediate suffering of little account in light of the ultimate purpose.
### Related Words & Concepts
G2706 (καταφρονέω) is closely related to other Greek words expressing contempt or dishonor. A notable synonym is G1848 (ἐξουθενέω, *exoutheneō*), which means "to treat as nothing" or "to utterly despise." While both convey contempt, καταφρονέω often emphasizes the *internal judgment* or cognitive act of devaluing, whereas ἐξουθενέω can lean more towards the *outward manifestation* of treating someone as worthless. Another related term is G818 (ἀτιμάζω, *atimazō*), meaning "to dishonor" or "to treat with indignity."
The opposite concepts to καταφρονέω include honor (G5091 - τιμάω, *timaō*), love (G25 - ἀγαπάω, *agapaō*), and respect. The word highlights the tension between pride and humility, judgment and acceptance, and reverence and irreverence.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of καταφρονέω is profound, as it touches upon fundamental aspects of Christian discipleship and community. It consistently warns against a dangerous spiritual posture: the act of devaluing or holding in contempt that which God values.
* **Against Idolatry and Spiritual Arrogance:** Despising God or His grace ([[Matthew 6:24]], [[Romans 2:4]]) is a grave sin, reflecting a misplaced allegiance or a presumptuous attitude towards divine patience. It underscores the necessity of valuing God above all else and receiving His grace with humility.
* **For Christian Unity and Charity:** The command not to despise fellow believers ([[Romans 14:3]], [[1 Corinthians 11:22]]) is critical for the health and unity of the church. It calls for charity, understanding, and mutual respect, even amidst differences, affirming the inherent worth of each member in Christ.
* **Respect for Authority and Calling:** The warnings against despising authority ([[1 Timothy 4:12]], [[1 Timothy 6:2]], [[2 Peter 2:10]]) emphasize the divine order and the importance of recognizing and respecting legitimate leadership, whether within the church or in society.
* **Christ as the Ultimate Example:** Jesus' "despising the shame" of the cross ([[Hebrews 12:2]]) serves as a powerful theological model. It demonstrates that true spiritual strength involves a resolute focus on God's ultimate purpose, allowing one to transcend and effectively "despise" the temporary suffering, opposition, or shame that might otherwise deter. This is not a despising of persons or God, but a purposeful disregard for the negative consequences in light of a greater, divine objective.
### Summary
G2706 (καταφρονέω, *kataphronéō*) signifies "to think down upon," "to hold in contempt," or "to despise." Rooted in the idea of a cognitive judgment that devalues its object, it is consistently used in the New Testament to warn against attitudes and actions that undermine proper reverence and respect. Whether despising God's grace, devaluing fellow believers, or showing contempt for legitimate authority, καταφρονέω highlights a dangerous spiritual posture. The singular, profound exception is Jesus' "despising the shame" of the cross, which exemplifies a purposeful disregard for suffering in light of a greater, divine joy and redemptive purpose. The word thus underscores the vital importance of right estimation, humility, and reverence in the Christian life.
TRV