### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **bûwz**, represented by `{{H936}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to disrespect**. It is translated as contemn, despise, and in an idiomatic sense, utterly. This term appears **12 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily conveying an attitude of contempt or scorn.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H936}}` consistently denotes a foolish or sinful rejection of what is valuable. It is frequently used in the book of Proverbs to describe the attitude of a fool toward divine principles. For instance, fools are those who **despise** wisdom and instruction [[Proverbs 1:7]]. This contempt extends to interpersonal relationships, where one who **despiseth** his neighbour is said to sin [[Proverbs 14:21]], and the one who is void of wisdom **despiseth** his neighbour [[Proverbs 11:12]]. The word also applies to scorning parental authority ([[Proverbs 23:22]], [[Proverbs 30:17]]) and rejecting God's word, which leads to destruction [[Proverbs 13:13]]. In a unique double usage, it expresses how an offer of wealth for love would be **utterly** `{{H936}}` **contemned** `{{H936}}` [[Song of Solomon 8:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to contextualize the meaning of despising:
* `{{H191}}` **ʼĕvîyl**: This word means a **fool** or **silly** person. Its connection is direct and explicit in scripture, which states that **fools** `{{H191}}` are the ones who **despise** `{{H936}}` wisdom and instruction [[Proverbs 1:7]].
* `{{H2638}}` **châçêr**: Defined as **lacking**, **void**, or **destitute**, this term describes the internal state of one who despises others. The Bible links this lack directly to contempt, stating that "He that is **void** `{{H2638}}` of wisdom **despiseth** `{{H936}}` his neighbour" [[Proverbs 11:12]].
* `{{H3932}}` **lâʻag**: Meaning **to deride** or **mock**, this word is used in parallel with `{{H936}}` to illustrate profound disrespect for parents. The same eye that **mocketh** `{{H3932}}` at a father also **despiseth** `{{H936}}` to obey a mother [[Proverbs 30:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H936}}` is significant, highlighting a disposition that is contrary to godly wisdom and humility.
* **Rejection of Authority:** To **despise** the word [[Proverbs 13:13]] or one's parents [[Proverbs 23:22]] is to reject the foundational sources of divine and familial instruction, an act that scripture warns will lead to destruction and severe consequence [[Proverbs 30:17]].
* **Contempt for the Humble:** The act of despising is contrasted with God's perspective. While men may have **despised** the "day of small things," God's eyes see it as a cause for rejoicing [[Zechariah 4:10]]. This frames human contempt as a failure to see divine value.
* **The Mark of a Fool:** Despising is consistently presented not as a sign of strength, but of foolishness. Whether it is a fool despising wisdom [[Proverbs 23:9]] or someone void of wisdom despising a neighbour [[Proverbs 11:12]], the act itself is an indicator of a sinful and unwise heart.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H936}}` is a key biblical term that defines the active and willful disrespect for wisdom, authority, and other people. Primarily found in wisdom literature, it serves as a warning against the arrogance and foolishness that leads to rejecting God's instruction, scorning one's neighbour, and dishonoring one's parents. The consequences are dire, while the opposite disposition—fearing the commandment and showing mercy—is associated with reward and happiness ([[Proverbs 13:13]], [[Proverbs 14:21]]).
TRV