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ῥακά (rhaka)

rhaka

fool

G4469 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The word rhaka is a term of contempt found in Matthew 5:22, where Jesus warns against insulting others. It translates an Aramaic expression meaning "empty" or "vain." In its original context, it was used to dismiss someone as senseless or lacking moral substance, carrying the weight of a serious social insult.

Jesus places this term alongside anger and murder to show that contempt in the heart is as dangerous as outward violence. By using a word rooted in Aramaic rather than standard Greek, the text reflects the everyday speech of first-century Galilee. The severity of the warning highlights how deeply Christian ethics value the dignity of every person.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word rhaka carries a heavy weight in our daily interactions. It translates to 'empty' or 'vain,' serving as a sharp dismissal of another person’s worth. When Jesus uses this Aramaic term in Matthew 5:22, He highlights how deeply contempt hurts. It is not just an insult; it is a rejection of the dignity God has placed in someone else.

This warning invites us to examine our hearts. Anger and harsh words can erode relationships just as surely as physical violence. By calling out this specific term, Jesus shows that every person deserves respect, even when we disagree or feel frustrated. Recognizing the power of our speech helps us build bridges rather than walls.

Reflecting on how we speak to others can transform our community. Choosing kindness over contempt reflects the heart of Christ. May we find grace in our moments of frustration and extend patience to those around us, honoring the image of God in every conversation.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • Raca,’1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • ῥακά,1×

Key Verses

  • Matthew 5:22
    But I tell you that everyone who is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgment. Whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ will be in danger of the council. Whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of Gehenna.

    This verse uniquely pairs rhaka with anger and murder to demonstrate that internal contempt is as serious as outward violence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does rhaka mean in the Bible?

Rhaka is an Aramaic term used in Matthew 5:22 that means 'empty' or 'vain.' It was a common insult in first-century Galilee, dismissing someone as lacking moral substance or sense. Jesus uses it to warn against dehumanizing others through speech.

How is rhaka different from other words for 'fool'?

While Greek words like moros (G3108) mean 'foolish,' rhaka specifically conveys emptiness or worthlessness. It reflects a social contempt that dismisses a person’s value entirely, rather than just criticizing their actions or intelligence.

Why does Jesus use an Aramaic word here?

Jesus likely used rhaka because it was the everyday speech of His audience in Galilee. By using a familiar term of contempt, He made His warning about anger and insult immediate and personal for those listening.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Matthew 1 verse
Matthew 5:22

But I tell you that everyone who is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgment. Whoever…