The Greek word chleuázō, represented by G5512, means to jeer at or mock, an action described as to "throw out the lip." It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, highlighting a specific reaction of contempt or disbelief.
In its biblical appearances, G5512 describes a response of ridicule toward divine acts. In Athens, when Paul preached, some in the crowd mocked upon hearing of the resurrection of the dead Acts 17:32. Similarly, on the day of Pentecost, when the disciples spoke in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance, some observers were mocking, accusing them of being full of new wine Acts 2:13. In both instances, the mockery serves as a dismissal of a profound spiritual event.
Several related words provide context for the act of mocking:
- G386 anástasis (a standing up again, i.e. (literally) a resurrection from death): This is the specific doctrine that provoked mockery from the listeners in Athens Acts 17:32.
- G1098 gleûkos (sweet wine... new wine): This was the substance the mockers accused the apostles of being full of, offering a worldly explanation for a spiritual phenomenon Acts 2:13.
- G191 akoúō (to hear): The act of mocking in these passages is a direct reaction to what was heard. The crowd in Athens heard of the resurrection, and the crowd in Jerusalem heard the disciples speaking in a way they did not understand Acts 17:32.
The use of G5512 carries significant weight, illustrating a key human response to divine revelation.
- Rejection of the Supernatural: Mockery is directed at foundational Christian truths that defy simple explanation, such as the resurrection G386 of the dead G3498 and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
- Expression of Disbelief: The act of jeering is a verbal expression of unbelief. Instead of seeking understanding, the mockers choose to ridicule what they hear. In Acts 17:32, some mocked while others G2087 were willing to hear G191 again, showing a clear division in the audience.
- Misinterpretation of Divine Power: In Acts 2:13, the mockers misinterpret the power of the Holy Spirit as intoxication, saying the apostles are full G3325 of new wine G1098. This shows a preference for a carnal explanation over a spiritual one.
In summary, G5512 is a specific and powerful term for contemptuous ridicule. While used sparingly, its occurrences in scripture are pivotal, marking moments where humanity is confronted with divine truth. It captures the reaction of disbelief and scorn that often meets the supernatural, whether it be the promise of resurrection or the manifest work of the Spirit.
TRV