### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **miséō**, represented by `{{G3404}}`, means **to detest (especially to persecute); by extension, to love less**. It appears **42 times** across **38 unique verses** in the Bible, establishing a powerful contrast to love and devotion. The term covers a spectrum of meanings, from intense personal animosity to the theological division between the world and the followers of Christ.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3404}}` is used in several distinct contexts. It illustrates the concept of absolute allegiance, as one cannot serve two masters but will **hate** the one and love the other [[Matthew 6:24]]. It is also a key descriptor of the world's reaction to believers, with Jesus warning his disciples that they will be **hated** by all nations for His name's sake [[Matthew 24:9]]. The term is also used hyperbolically to signify ultimate priority; a disciple must **hate** his father, mother, and even his own life in comparison to his commitment to Christ [[Luke 14:26]]. Finally, it describes a righteous opposition to evil, as God has loved righteousness and **hated** iniquity [[Hebrews 1:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope and nuance of `{{G3404}}`:
* `{{G25}}` **agapáō** (to love): This is the direct opposite of miséō, often used in the same verse to create a stark contrast between two loyalties or actions. For example, a person will either hate one master and **love** the other [[Luke 16:13]] or choose to **love** God over Esau [[Romans 9:13]].
* `{{G2190}}` **echthrós** (enemy): This term describes the object of hatred. Believers are commanded not to hate but to love their **enemies** [[Luke 6:27]], turning the expected dynamic on its head.
* `{{G1377}}` **diṓkō** (to persecute): The base definition of miséō includes persecution, and this word often appears alongside it. Believers are told to do good to those who hate them and pray for those who **persecute** them [[Matthew 5:44]].
* `{{G2706}}` **kataphronéō** (to despise): This is used as a parallel concept to hating one of two masters, highlighting an attitude of disdain and rejection [[Matthew 6:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3404}}` is profound, often serving as an indicator of one's spiritual condition and allegiance.
* **An Indicator of Spiritual State:** To hate one's brother is to walk in `{{G4653}}` darkness [[1 John 2:11]] and to be a `{{G5583}}` liar if claiming to love God [[1 John 4:20]]. John goes as far as to state that whoever **hateth** his brother is a `{{G443}}` murderer [[1 John 3:15]].
* **The World's Opposition to God:** The world's hatred is directed at Christ and his followers because their deeds are `{{G4190}}` evil and testify against it [[John 7:7]]. Jesus states plainly, "If the world **hate** you, ye know that it **hated** me before it hated you" [[John 15:18]].
* **A Call to Supreme Devotion:** The command to **hate** one's own life is not a call to self-destruction but to prioritize eternal life over worldly existence. He that **hateth** his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal [[John 12:25]].
* **Divine Hatred of Sin:** The term is used to describe God's righteous opposition to evil. Christ himself **hates** the deeds of the Nicolaitans [[Revelation 2:6]], demonstrating a divine standard that detests what is contrary to His nature.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3404}}` is a critical term that defines the lines between light and darkness, loyalty and betrayal, and the sacred and the profane. It moves beyond simple emotion to become a marker of one's fundamental relationship with God and the world. From the sinful hatred of a brother to the righteous hatred of iniquity, and from the world's persecution of the faithful to the disciple's radical devotion, **miséō** forces a choice and reveals the true allegiance of the heart.
TRV