Unjust hatred is a theme that runs throughout the Bible, often depicted as a destructive force that stands in opposition to God's commandments of love and justice. It is characterized by animosity or hostility that lacks a righteous cause, often stemming from envy, pride, or misunderstanding. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that highlight the dangers and consequences of harboring such hatred.

Old Testament Examples

One of the earliest instances of unjust hatred is found in the account of Cain and Abel. Cain's hatred towards his brother Abel arose from jealousy and led to the first murder recorded in Scripture. Genesis 4:5-8 states, "but He did not have regard for Cain and his offering. So Cain became very angry, and his countenance fell. Then the LORD said to Cain, 'Why are you angry, and why has your countenance fallen? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you refuse to do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires you, but you must master it.' Cain said to his brother Abel, 'Let us go out to the field.' And while they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him."

Another example is found in the account of Joseph and his brothers. Joseph's brothers harbored hatred towards him due to their father's favoritism and Joseph's dreams, which foretold his future prominence. This hatred led them to sell Joseph into slavery. Genesis 37:4 notes, "When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father loved him more than any of them, they hated him and could not speak a kind word to him."

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus addresses the issue of unjust hatred in His Sermon on the Mount. He equates hatred with murder, emphasizing the seriousness of harboring such feelings. Matthew 5:21-22 states, "You have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not murder’ and ‘Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ will be subject to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be subject to the fire of hell."

The Apostle John also speaks against unjust hatred, linking it to spiritual darkness. In 1 John 2:9-11 , he writes, "Anyone who claims to be in the light but hates his brother is still in the darkness. Whoever loves his brother remains in the light, and there is no cause of stumbling in him. But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness. He does not know where he is going, because the darkness has blinded his eyes."

Consequences and Warnings

The Bible warns of the consequences of unjust hatred, both in this life and in the life to come. Proverbs 10:12 states, "Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers all transgressions." This highlights the divisive nature of hatred and contrasts it with the unifying power of love.

Furthermore, unjust hatred is seen as contrary to the nature of God, who is love (1 John 4:8). Those who harbor hatred are warned of spiritual peril. Galatians 5:19-21 lists hatred among the works of the flesh, warning that "those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God."

Call to Love and Forgiveness

The Bible calls believers to overcome unjust hatred through love and forgiveness. Jesus commands His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them (Matthew 5:44). The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in Romans 12:17-21 , urging believers to "not repay anyone evil for evil" and to "overcome evil with good."

In summary, unjust hatred is a destructive force that the Bible consistently condemns. Believers are called to reject hatred and embrace love, reflecting the character of God and the teachings of Christ.