What Actually Does God Hate According to Scripture and Biblical Interpretation

The question of what God hates has been debated and discussed for centuries. The Bible provides several passages that seem to indicate God's disapproval. However, modern biblical interpretation offers a nuanced perspective, challenging the literalist view and providing a more holistic understanding of God's character.

Condemnation in the Bible

Several verses in the Bible are often cited to suggest that God hates certain actions or people, but these passages are often taken out of context or misunderstood. Here are a few examples that are commonly referenced:

Exodus 22:18: This verse commands the execution of witches, a practice that is now recognized as harmful and unethical. In modern times, it is understood that this command is specific to the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel and does not reflect God's broader character. Leviticus 20:13: This passage states that God hates homosexuality, though it is important to note that modern scholarship emphasizes the historical and cultural context, and many contemporary religious scholars view this as a harsh and narrow interpretation. Numbers 15:32-36: This verse describes the execution of a man who was found gathering firewood on a Sabbath. While literal interpretation can be harsh, a broader view suggests that God values holiness and the sacredness of the Sabbath. Deuteronomy 13:6-10 13:13-18 2 Chronicles 15:13: These passages speak about the need to be rid of false prophets and unbelievers. However, they are often misunderstood as condoning violence. Modern interpretations suggest that such actions were necessary in the context of potential apostasy. Leviticus 21:16-23: This passage outlines certain disqualifications for priests based on physical and genetic disabilities. Again, this is seen as a strict measure for the priesthood under the Old Covenant, rather than reflecting God's general stance. Illegitimate children: The Bible includes various regulations about illicit sexual relationships, but the underlying message is about maintaining social order and purity, not God's hatred.

Modern Biblical Interpretation

Modern biblical interpretation provides a richer understanding of these passages. Instead of focusing on the literal condemnation, many scholars emphasize the deeper spiritual and ethical implications of God's character:

Hate in the Modern Context:

Proverbs 6:16: This verse lists seven things that God hates: a haughty look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that run quickly to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brothers. These are all negative traits or behaviors that could be considered forms of hate. The Haughty Look (Pride): Pride is often seen as the root of all sin, and God values humility. True love and compassion are to be sought, not pride. The Lying Tongue: God values truth and transparency. Trust and honesty are fundamental in any relationship. Hands that Shed Innocent Blood: God values life and justice. Innocent life must be protected and human life is sacred. Wicked Plans: God desires purity of heart and intentions. Evil schemes are antithetical to God's will. Swift Feet to Evil: This refers to the rapid and eager pursuit of sin. Patience and moral discipline are valued. False Witnesses and Discord: God values community and unity. Division and deceit are harmful to the body of Christ.

God Does Not Really Hate

Instead of hating, the phrase "God hates" is often a reflection of a deeper understanding of God's character. Here are some key insights:

Reversal of the Holy Spirit: The lack of the Holy Spirit in a person can lead to the presence of negative traits like pride and hatred. The Holy Spirit is seen as the source of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Understanding of Lacking the Holy Spirit: Anyone who lacks the Holy Spirit may exhibit negative behaviors, but this does not mean God hates them. It is more accurate to say that God's absence can lead to these traits. Corruption and Lack of Understanding:_LP;

True understanding of God's character is derived from the overall message of the Bible, which is filled with themes of love, mercy, and justice rather than hatred.

To better understand God's character and his true nature, one can study the letters of Paul, the synoptic Gospels, and the Book of Revelation. These texts emphasize God's love, patience, and desire for reconciliation and restoration, rather than hatred or condemnation.