Mocking and despising are attitudes and actions that are frequently addressed in the Bible, often associated with scorn, ridicule, and a lack of respect for God, His people, and His commandments. These behaviors are depicted as contrary to the character and will of God, and they often lead to divine judgment and personal downfall.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, mocking and despising are often seen in the context of rebellion against God and His prophets. The Hebrew word often translated as "mock" is "לָעַג" (la'ag), which conveys the idea of derision and scorn. For example, in 2 Kings 2:23-24, the prophet Elisha is mocked by a group of youths, and their disrespect results in severe consequences: "Then he went up from there to Bethel, and as he was going up the road, some youths came out of the city and mocked him, saying, 'Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!' So he turned around and looked at them, and pronounced a curse on them in the name of the LORD. And two female bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the youths."

Mocking is also directed towards God Himself, as seen in Isaiah 37:23, where the Assyrian king Sennacherib is rebuked for his arrogance: "Whom have you taunted and blasphemed? Against whom have you raised your voice and lifted your eyes in pride? Against the Holy One of Israel!"

Despising, often linked with pride and arrogance, is similarly condemned. Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." This highlights the foolishness of despising divine instruction and the wisdom that comes from God.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, mocking is prominently featured in the accounts of Jesus' passion. The Roman soldiers, Jewish leaders, and even the crowds mocked Jesus during His trial and crucifixion. Matthew 27:29-31 describes this scene: "And they twisted together a crown of thorns, set it on His head, and put a staff in His right hand. And they knelt down before Him to mock Him, saying, 'Hail, King of the Jews!' Then they spit on Him and took the staff and struck Him on the head repeatedly. After they had mocked Him, they removed the robe and put His own clothes back on Him. Then they led Him away to crucify Him."

The apostle Paul warns against mocking God in Galatians 6:7: "Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return." This verse underscores the principle of divine justice and the futility of mocking God, as it ultimately leads to one's own ruin.

Despising is also addressed in the New Testament, particularly in the context of the Christian community. In 1 Corinthians 11:22, Paul rebukes the Corinthians for their behavior during the Lord's Supper: "Do you not have your own homes in which to eat and drink? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you for this? Of course not!"

Theological Implications

Mocking and despising are seen as manifestations of a heart that is hardened against God and His truth. They reflect a lack of reverence and humility, which are essential virtues in the biblical worldview. The Bible consistently portrays these attitudes as leading to negative consequences, both spiritually and relationally.

The call to believers is to cultivate a spirit of humility, respect, and reverence towards God and others. This is encapsulated in passages such as James 4:6, which states, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" The biblical narrative encourages believers to avoid mocking and despising, instead embracing a life of obedience and respect for God's authority and wisdom.