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Bible Encyclopedias
Insult
Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature
or or such a treatment of another, in word or deed, as to express contempt, is not definitely taken cognizance of in the Mosaic law; only the reviling of superiors is forbidden (Exodus 22:28), yet without any special penalty attached. The severity, however, with ‘ which disrespect towards sacred persons was punished appears from 2 Kings 2:22 sq. There also occurs mention (Psalms 22:8; Psalms 38:21; Lamentations 2:15; Matthew 27:39) of gestures of malicious mockery (wagging the head, הֵנַיעִ ראֹשׁ ). Insult by abusive words (Matthew 5:22, ῥακά; (See RACA) ) or stroke (smiting on the cheek, Job 16:10; Matthew 5:39; John 18:22; John 19:3; pulling the ears, spitting upon, Matthew 27:30, etc.) was, in later law, punished by fine (Mishna, Baba Kammer, 8, 6; comp. Matthew 5:22), as also in Roman law. For a marked public affront which Herod Agrippa I received at Alexandria, see Philo, 2, 522. (See COURTESY).
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McClintock, John. Strong, James. Entry for 'Insult'. Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature. https://www.studylight.org/encyclopedias/eng/tce/i/insult.html. Harper & Brothers. New York. 1870.
