### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hybristḗs**, represented by `{{G5197}}`, is defined as **an insulter, i.e. maltreater**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The term, translated as "despiteful" and "injurious," points to a person characterized by insolent and violent mistreatment of others.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{G5197}}` is used to identify a particularly grievous type of sinner. In [[Romans 1:30]], it appears in a long list of sins that characterize a depraved mind, where the person is described as **despiteful**. The Apostle Paul also uses the term in [[1 Timothy 1:13]] to describe his own past, admitting he was a blasphemer, a persecutor, and **injurious**. He immediately follows this confession by stating, "but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief."
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of being an insulter or maltreater:
* `{{G1376}}` **diṓktēs** (a persecutor): This term is paired directly with `{{G5197}}` in [[1 Timothy 1:13]], showing that the "injurious" nature was expressed through active persecution.
* `{{G989}}` **blásphēmos** (scurrilous, i.e. calumnious (against men), or (specially) impious (against God)): Used alongside "injurious" in [[1 Timothy 1:13]], it connects the act of maltreatment with profane and impious speech.
* `{{G5244}}` **hyperḗphanos** (appearing above others (conspicuous), i.e. (figuratively) haughty): In the list from [[Romans 1:30]], this word for "proud" is listed next to "despiteful," suggesting the root of injurious behavior is arrogance.
* `{{G213}}` **alazṓn** (braggart): Also appearing in [[Romans 1:30]], this term for "boasters" further links the injurious actions of `{{G5197}}` to a mindset of pride and self-aggrandizement.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5197}}` is significant in its portrayal of sin and grace.
* **Symptom of a Reprobate Mind:** Its inclusion in [[Romans 1:30]] places it not as an isolated act but as a key feature of a life and mind given over to sin, listed among those who are "haters of God" and "inventors of evil things".
* **Expression of Arrogance:** The word's close association with being "proud" `{{G5244}}` and "boasters" `{{G213}}` demonstrates that maltreating others is an outward expression of a heart that is haughty and rebellious.
* **A Sin Subject to Mercy:** Paul’s self-identification as formerly "injurious" [[1 Timothy 1:13]] powerfully illustrates that even this severe sin can be forgiven. His testimony highlights that God's mercy is available to those who acted in ignorance and unbelief.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5197}}` is a potent term describing an individual who insolently and violently mistreats others. It is presented as a hallmark of a depraved nature rooted in pride [[Romans 1:30]]. However, it is also shown to be a forgivable sin, as exemplified by the Apostle Paul, who was redeemed from this very behavior by the mercy of God [[1 Timothy 1:13]].
TRV