### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **atimázō**, represented by `{{G818}}`, means to render infamous, contemn, or maltreat. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The term encompasses a range of actions from despising someone to inflicting shameful treatment or dishonoring God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G818}}` describes dishonor in various contexts. It is used to depict the consequence of sin, where God gives people up to **uncleanness** to **dishonour** their own bodies [[Romans 1:24]]. It also describes the physical and social mistreatment of others, such as when a landowner's servant is beaten and **entreated shamefully** [[Luke 20:11]] or when the rich **despise** the poor [[James 2:6]]. The term is also applied directly to God, as breaking the law is an act that **dishonourest** God [[Romans 2:23]]. In a striking reversal, the apostles rejoice that they were counted worthy to **suffer shame** for the name of Jesus [[Acts 5:41]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of `{{G818}}`:
* `{{G5091}}` **timáō** (to revere): This word serves as a direct antonym. In his confrontation with his accusers, Jesus uses both words to draw a sharp contrast, stating "I **honour** my Father, and ye do **dishonour** me" [[John 8:49]].
* `{{G1194}}` **dérō** (to scourge, or to thrash): This term for physical violence is used in conjunction with `{{G818}}` to show the tangible nature of shameful treatment. In the parable of the wicked husbandmen, the servant is both **beaten** and **entreated him shamefully** [[Luke 20:11]].
* `{{G3847}}` **parábasis** (violation): This word points to the cause of dishonoring God. The act of **breaking** the law is what directly leads to the question, "dishonourest thou God?" [[Romans 2:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G818}}` is significant, touching on sin, justice, and discipleship.
* **Rejection of Divine Authority:** The word is used to describe the ultimate offense of dishonoring God through the **transgression** of His law [[Romans 2:23]] and the direct dishonoring of His Son, Jesus [[John 8:49]].
* **A Consequence of Sin:** Dishonor is presented as a result of turning away from God. In Romans, being given up to **uncleanness** results in the self-inflicted dishonor of the body, linking moral impurity to physical degradation [[Romans 1:24]].
* **A Mark of Discipleship:** In a profound paradox, what the world considers dishonor is embraced as a virtue in the kingdom of God. The apostles model this by rejoicing that they were found worthy to **suffer shame** for Christ's name, reframing worldly disgrace as a mark of faithfulness [[Acts 5:41]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G818}}` is a multifaceted term that signifies more than simple disrespect. It captures a spectrum of meaning from the social injustice of despising the poor to the physical violence of shameful mistreatment. Theologically, it defines the very nature of sin as an act of dishonoring God and Christ, while also illuminating the counter-cultural call for believers to endure shame for the sake of the gospel.
TRV