βλασφημία (blasphēmia)
blasphēmia
blasphemy
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 17 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun blasphēmia denotes speech that slanders or injures another’s reputation, but in Scripture it primarily refers to impious words against God. It describes a direct assault on divine majesty, treating the sacred with contempt or false accusation. This usage appears when religious leaders accuse Jesus of claiming equality with God (John 10:33) or when he is tried for speaking against the temple and the law (Mark 14:64).
The word also covers malicious gossip and slander among people, such as in lists of vices that include defaming others (Matthew 15:19; Ephesians 4:31). In Revelation, it characterizes the arrogant claims of opposing forces, describing their mouths speaking great things and blasphemies against God (Revelation 13:5-6). The term thus bridges human cruelty and divine insult, marking speech that destroys rather than builds.
Its root lies in a verb meaning to speak evil. The sources highlight that this is not merely disagreement but a destructive force. In Matthew 12:31, Jesus distinguishes it from other sins, calling it an unforgivable offense because it represents a hardened rejection of the Spirit’s work. The word captures the weight of words that seek to diminish the holy.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word blasphemy describes speech that strikes at the heart of what is sacred. In Scripture, it is not simply rude language or a difference of opinion. It is a deliberate attempt to diminish God’s glory or to accuse Him of evil. When religious leaders accused Jesus of blasphemy for claiming authority to forgive sins, they were reacting to His divine identity (Luke 5:21). This shows that the term carries immense weight, touching on who God truly is.
Yet this word also reminds us of the power of our own tongues. Lists of sinful behavior in the New Testament often include slander and abusive speech against others (Ephesians 4:31). We are called to guard our words because they reveal what is in our hearts. Instead of tearing down reputations or mocking the holy, we can choose language that honors God and respects our neighbors. This shift starts with a humble heart that recognizes God’s majesty.
Even when facing false accusations or spiritual opposition, the Bible assures us that grace covers many sins (Mark 3:28). The only unforgivable sin is a hardened rejection of the Spirit’s witness to Christ (Matthew 12:31). For those who trust in Jesus, there is hope and restoration. Let your speech reflect the truth and love found in Him.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 17 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- blasphemy4×
- slander,3×
- blasphemies3×
- slander2×
- slanders.1×
- of blasphemy.1×
- of blasphemy,1×
- blasphemy;1×
- blasphemy,1×
- blasphemies?1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- βλασφημίας3×
- βλασφημία3×
- βλασφημίας,2×
- βλασφημίαν2×
- βλασφημίας·1×
- βλασφημίας;1×
- βλασφημίας.1×
- βλασφημίαν,1×
- βλασφημίαι.1×
- βλασφημίαι,1×
- βλασφημίαι1×
- βλασφημία,1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 5:21
The scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone?”
This verse shows the religious leaders identifying blasphemy specifically with the claim to divine authority, linking the word directly to Jesus' identity.
-
Matthew 12:31
Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men.
Jesus uses this term to distinguish a specific, hardened rejection of the Holy Spirit from other forgivable sins.
-
Revelation of John 13:6
He opened his mouth for blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, his dwelling, and those who dwell in heaven.
Here the word describes the ultimate arrogant assault against God’s name and dwelling by opposing forces.
-
Ephesians 4:31
Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, outcry, and slander be put away from you, with all malice.
Paul includes slander (often translated from this root in context) among the behaviors believers must remove from their lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does blasphemy mean in the Bible?
Is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit unforgivable?
How is blasphemy different from normal disagreement?
Every Occurrence (17 verses across 9 books)
Matthew 3 verses
Therefore I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be…
Matthew 15:19For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, sexual sins, thefts, false testimony, and blasphemies.
Matthew 26:65Then the high priest tore his clothing, saying, “He has spoken blasphemy! Why do we need any more witnesses? Behold,…