Blasphemous names are terms or titles that show irreverence or disrespect toward God, His nature, or His divine attributes. In the biblical context, blasphemy is a serious offense against the holiness and majesty of God, often involving the misuse of His name or the ascription of divine attributes to false gods or idols.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the concept of blasphemy is closely tied to the sanctity of God's name. The Third Commandment explicitly warns against taking the Lord's name in vain: "You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not leave anyone unpunished who takes His name in vain" (Exodus 20:7). This command underscores the importance of revering God's name, which represents His character and authority.

Leviticus 24:16 provides a direct consequence for blasphemy: "Whoever blasphemes the name of the LORD must surely be put to death. The whole congregation must stone him. Whether an alien or a native, if he blasphemes the Name, he must be put to death" . This severe penalty reflects the gravity of the offense in the theocratic society of ancient Israel.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, blasphemy continues to be a significant concern, particularly in relation to the person and work of Jesus Christ. The religious leaders accused Jesus of blasphemy for claiming divine authority and identity. In John 10:33, the Jews respond to Jesus, saying, "We are not stoning You for any good work, but for blasphemy, because You, who are a man, declare Yourself to be God" .

The Apostle Paul warns against blasphemous behavior and speech in his epistles. In 1 Timothy 1:20, he mentions Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom he "handed over to Satan to be taught not to blaspheme" . This indicates that blasphemy was not only a theological error but also a moral failing that required correction.

Blasphemous Names in Revelation

The Book of Revelation provides a vivid depiction of blasphemous names in the context of end-times prophecy. Revelation 13:1 describes a beast rising from the sea with "ten horns and seven heads, with ten crowns on its horns, and on each head a blasphemous name" . This imagery symbolizes the ultimate rebellion against God, as the beast represents worldly powers that oppose divine authority.

Revelation 17:3 further elaborates on this theme: "Then the angel carried me away in the Spirit into a wilderness. There I saw a woman sitting on a scarlet beast that was covered with blasphemous names and had seven heads and ten horns" . The blasphemous names signify the pervasive and systemic nature of opposition to God in the last days.

Theological Implications

Blasphemous names, whether in speech or symbolic representation, challenge the sovereignty and holiness of God. They reflect a heart attitude that is contrary to the reverence and worship due to the Creator. The biblical injunctions against blasphemy serve as a reminder of the importance of honoring God's name and maintaining the purity of worship.

In Christian theology, the ultimate remedy for blasphemy is found in repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, who offers forgiveness and reconciliation with God. The seriousness with which Scripture treats blasphemy underscores the need for believers to guard their speech and actions, ensuring that they reflect the holiness and majesty of the God they serve.