from a derivative of the base of μυκάομαι (meaning snout, as that whence lowing proceeds); to make mouths at, i.e. ridicule:--mock.
Transliteration:myktērízō
Pronunciation:mook-tay-rid'-zo
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word μυκτηρίζω (myktērízō, `{{G3456}}`) is derived from a root related to μυκάομαι (mykaomai), which means "to low" or "to bellow" (as an ox), and more directly from μυκτήρ (myktēr), meaning "snout" or "nostril." This etymological background provides insight into its literal meaning: "to turn up the nose," "to make mouths at," or "to curl the lip." These are physical gestures universally understood as expressions of scorn, contempt, or disdain.
Figuratively, μυκτηρίζω extends from this physical act to denote the broader concept of "to ridicule," "to scoff at," or "to mock." It implies a deliberate and often contemptuous disregard for someone or something, treating them with utter disrespect and derision. It is not a lighthearted jest but a serious act of defiance or contempt, suggesting a belief that the object of the mockery is beneath consideration or can be treated with impunity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word μυκτηρίζω (myktērízō, `{{G3456}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Apostle Paul's letter to the Galatians:
* **[[Galatians 6:7]]**: "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap."
In this singular occurrence, the context is crucial. Paul is addressing the Galatian believers concerning their conduct, particularly regarding their spiritual responsibilities and the consequences of their choices. The preceding verses discuss bearing one another's burdens and supporting those who teach the Word. The warning "God cannot be mocked" (Θεὸς οὐ μυκτηρίζεται) serves as a stern admonition against any attitude or action that presumes to circumvent or defy God's established moral and spiritual order.
To "mock God" in this context implies treating His commands, His principles, or even His very being with contempt or casual disregard. It suggests a form of spiritual arrogance or self-deception where one might believe they can sow seeds of carnal living, neglect spiritual duties, or live in defiance of God's will, yet somehow escape the natural and divine consequences. The phrase underscores the absolute certainty of divine justice and the inviolability of the principle of sowing and reaping. It is a powerful statement against spiritual complacency or a dismissive attitude toward divine truth.
### Related Words & Concepts
μυκτηρίζω (myktērízō, `{{G3456}}`) belongs to a semantic field of words denoting mockery, scorn, and ridicule in the New Testament. While it has a unique etymological flavor, it shares conceptual space with:
* `{{G1702}}` ἐμπαίζω (empaizō): To mock, make sport of, often implying cruel or abusive treatment (e.g., the mocking of Jesus by soldiers).
* `{{G5511}}` χλευάζω (chleuazō): To scoff, deride, often with open scorn and contempt (e.g., the Athenians mocking Paul in [[Acts 17:32]]).
* `{{G2602}}` καταγελάω (katagelaō): To laugh down, to deride, to scoff at, often suggesting a sense of superiority (e.g., Jesus being laughed at in [[Mark 5:40]]).
* `{{G1592}}` ἐκμυκτηρίζω (ekmyktērizō): A strengthened form of μυκτηρίζω, meaning to scoff at, to express utter contempt, often with a physical gesture of turning up the nose (e.g., the Pharisees mocking Jesus in [[Luke 16:14]] and the rulers mocking Him on the cross in [[Luke 23:35]]). This word is particularly close in meaning and reinforces the intensity of the contempt.
The concepts related to μυκτηρίζω include contempt, scorn, disdain, defiance, spiritual arrogance, and self-deception regarding divine judgment.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of μυκτηρίζω (myktērízō, `{{G3456}}`) is primarily derived from its sole occurrence in [[Galatians 6:7]], where it forms the core of a profound theological assertion: "God cannot be mocked."
1. **Divine Sovereignty and Inviolable Justice:** The statement "God cannot be mocked" is a powerful declaration of God's absolute sovereignty and the unyielding nature of His moral and spiritual laws. It asserts that God's order cannot be circumvented, outsmarted, or treated with contempt without consequence. His justice is perfect and inevitable. This stands in stark contrast to human systems of justice, which can often be manipulated or defied.
2. **The Principle of Sowing and Reaping:** The immediate follow-up, "for whatever one sows, that will he also reap," directly links the act of "mocking God" to the universal principle of cause and effect in the spiritual realm. To mock God is to sow seeds of rebellion, spiritual negligence, or carnal indulgence, with the mistaken belief that one can avoid the harvest of corruption. The passage underscores that God's system ensures a just recompense for all actions, whether good or ill.
3. **Warning Against Self-Deception:** The preceding phrase, "Do not be deceived," highlights that the act of mocking God often stems from a fundamental self-deception. This deception might involve underestimating God's power, misjudging His character, or falsely believing that one can escape the consequences of ungodly living. It is a crucial warning against spiritual blindness and intellectual arrogance that presumes to operate outside of divine accountability.
4. **Call to Reverence and Humility:** Implicit in the warning is a call for profound reverence and humility before God. To mock God is to lack proper respect for His holiness, His authority, and His wisdom. The verse thus serves as an exhortation for believers to live lives marked by sincere obedience, spiritual diligence, and a deep respect for God's unchanging truth.
### Summary
The Greek word μυκτηρίζω (myktērízō, `{{G3456}}`), rooted in the concept of "turning up the nose" or "making mouths at," signifies a deep and contemptuous form of ridicule or mockery. Its singular, yet highly significant, appearance in [[Galatians 6:7]] — "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap" — delivers a powerful theological statement. This verse asserts the unassailable sovereignty of God and the infallibility of His justice. To "mock God" with μυκτηρίζω is not a casual jest, but a serious act of defiance and contemptuous disregard for His commands, His character, or His established order, often born out of self-deception. The passage unequivocally warns that such an attitude will inevitably lead to negative consequences, as God's righteous system ensures that every action yields its corresponding harvest. Thus, μυκτηρίζω underscores the vital importance of reverence, humility, and earnest obedience in the life of a believer, emphasizing that divine principles cannot be circumvented or treated lightly.
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