ἀντιλογία (antilogia)
antilogia
dispute
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun antilogia refers to a state of open disagreement or contentious opposition. It describes more than a simple difference of opinion; it implies active strife or gainsaying against an established authority or truth. The word captures the energy of conflict, where parties engage in sharp debate or rebellion rather than constructive dialogue.
Its usage is concentrated in the New Testament, appearing four times with significant theological weight. In Hebrews, it characterizes the attitude of those who resist God’s covenant promises (Hebrews 6:16; 7:7) and warns believers against growing weary through such contentiousness (Hebrews 12:3). Jude similarly employs it to describe the divisive behavior of false teachers who reject authority (Jude 1:11).
The term derives from a root meaning "to speak against," linking it directly to verbal confrontation. In the Septuagint, it often translates the Hebrew word for strife or controversy, reinforcing its association with communal discord. Translators typically render it as "disputing" or "contention," highlighting that this is not merely intellectual disagreement but a disruptive force within the community of faith.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word antilogia describes a sharp, contentious disagreement that disrupts peace. It is not simply a difference of opinion but an active strife against truth or authority. When we encounter such conflict, it can feel exhausting and deeply discouraging to our souls.
Hebrews 12:3 reminds us to look to Jesus, who endured this kind of contradiction from sinners. His example shows us that opposition is part of the Christian journey, yet it should not cause us to faint or give up hope. Instead, we find strength in his endurance.
In our own lives, we are called to avoid the divisive spirit described in Jude 1:11. By focusing on Christ rather than engaging in futile disputes, we preserve our peace and witness to the grace that sustains us through every trial.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- rebellion1×
- hostility,1×
- disputes1×
- dispute;1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀντιλογίᾳ1×
- ἀντιλογίας·1×
- ἀντιλογίας1×
- ἀντιλογίαν,1×
Key Verses
-
Hebrews 12:3
For consider him who has endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, that you don’t grow weary, fainting in your souls.
This verse connects the concept of contradiction directly to the suffering endured by Jesus, offering a model for believers facing opposition.
-
Jude 1:11
Woe to them! For they went in the way of Cain, and ran riotously in the error of Balaam for hire, and perished in Korah’s rebellion.
Here the word characterizes the destructive rebellion of false teachers who reject divine authority for personal gain.
-
Hebrews 6:16
For men indeed swear by a greater one, and in every dispute of theirs the oath is final for confirmation.
The term appears in a legal context where an oath serves as the final confirmation to end any dispute between people.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does antilogia mean in the Bible?
Where does this word appear in Scripture?
How is antilogia different from normal disagreement?
Every Occurrence (4 verses across 2 books)
Hebrews 3 verses
For men indeed swear by a greater one, and in every dispute of theirs the oath is final for confirmation.
Hebrews 7:7But without any dispute the lesser is blessed by the greater.
Hebrews 12:3For consider him who has endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, that you don’t grow weary, fainting in…