δυσφημία (dusphēmia)
dusphēmia
slander
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun dusphēmia refers to slander or defamatory speech, specifically the act of speaking evil about someone to damage their reputation. Derived from roots meaning "bad" and "voice," it captures the concrete reality of malicious words used to bring disgrace upon another person.
In the New Testament, this term appears only once, in 2 Corinthians 6:8. Paul lists it as one of the hardships he endures while serving Christ, contrasting it with euphēmia (good report or praise). This juxtaposition highlights that Christian ministry often invites false accusations and gossip, even as it simultaneously earns genuine honor from those who recognize God’s work.
Translators typically render this word as "slander" or "evil speaking." Its singular usage in Scripture underscores the specific vulnerability of leaders to character attacks. The contrast with good report reminds readers that public perception is often divided, and integrity remains steadfast regardless of whether one is praised or defamed.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When you serve others faithfully, it is common to face false accusations. The Greek word dusphēmia describes this specific pain: slander or evil speech intended to damage your reputation. It comes from roots meaning "bad voice," capturing the concrete reality of malicious words used to bring disgrace upon someone innocent.
In 2 Corinthians 6:8, Paul lists this alongside good report. He shows that Christian ministry often invites both praise and false accusations simultaneously. This contrast reminds us that public perception is divided, and our integrity remains steadfast regardless of whether we are honored or defamed by others.
Your worth is not defined by the whispers of critics but by your faithful walk with God. Even when slander strikes, remember that truth endures longer than gossip. Let this promise encourage you: your character is known to God, and He sees your integrity even when others do not.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- bad report1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- δυσφημίας1×
Key Verses
-
II Corinthians 6:8
by glory and dishonor, by evil report and good report, as deceivers and yet true,
Paul pairs this term with "good report" to show that ministry often invites both false accusations and genuine honor at the same time.