The word reject is used many times in scripture. That’s why I wanted to look up what the word reject means in Hebrew and Greek.
All scriptures are taken from NKJV unless otherwise marked.
What Does The Word ‘Reject’ Mean In Hebrew?
ma’ac- to spurn, to disappear.
This word means to reject, refuse, despise. Since God will not force anyone to follow His will, there are times when He must reject that person.
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.
Because you have rejected knowledge,
I also will reject you from being priest for Me;
Because you have forgotten the law of your God,
I also will forget your children.“
– Hosea 4:6
Also, the Lord rejected King Saul:
“For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft,
And stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.
Because you have rejected the word of the Lord,
He also has rejected you from being king.“
– 1 Samuel 15:23
Another important thing to remember is God judges the heart. Therefore, when the required things of God are done with the wrong attitudes or motives, God hates it.
“I hate, I despise your feast days,
And I do not savor your sacred assemblies.“
– Amos 5:21
Always keep in mind that purity in heart and attitude are far more important to God than perfection and beauty of rituals.
What Does The Word ‘Reject’ Mean In Greek?
atheteo- to disesteem, neutralize.
This word means to act toward anything as if it were annulled or no value. It can be used to speak of depriving a law of its force by opinions or acts contrary to it.
“Brethren, I speak in the manner of men: Though it is only a man’s covenant, yet if it is confirmed, no one annuls or adds to it.”
– Galatians 3:15
For example, it can mean to void something.
“I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.”
– Galatians 2:21
paraiteomai- to deprecate, decline.
“But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness.”
– 1 Timothy 4:7
Conclusion
In conclusion, the meaning of the word reject hasn’t changed much. We still use it in the same manner today.
That’s what the word reject means in Hebrew and Greek. I pray you found this article helpful. If so, please share this content. Also, feel free to share any thoughts in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
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