What is the definition of enmity?

Definition and Etymology

The term “enmity” generally refers to deep-rooted hostility, antagonism, or hatred between individuals or groups. In the biblical context, this concept carries both relational and spiritual weight. The English word “enmity” derives from the Latin “inimicitia,” which denotes hostility or animosity. Scripturally, the term is often expressed through Hebrew and Greek words that emphasize adversarial relationships. In Hebrew, the root often rendered as “enmity” (עוֹנָה or related terms) points to a state of ongoing hostility, while in New Testament Greek, ἔχθρα (echthra) underscores the intense opposition or hatred between parties.

Foundational Old Testament Usage

In the Old Testament, enmity appears prominently in Genesis 3:15, a verse in which God declares: “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers...” This statement announces a perpetual conflict, first symbolically illustrated by the hostility between the serpent (Satan) and humanity. The theme underscores the beginning of spiritual opposition in a creation that was originally “very good” (Genesis 1:31).

From a textual standpoint, the Dead Sea Scrolls (discovered in the mid-20th century) preserve Old Testament passages such as Genesis 3, aligning closely with the Masoretic Text and clearly reflecting the concept of enmity in its earliest available manuscripts. Archeological consistency and scribal fidelity across centuries reinforce the important theological emphasis on the conflict introduced in the earliest chapters of Scripture.

Other Old Testament References

1. Numbers 35:21 – “...the avenger of blood...shall put him to death” illustrates the existence of enmity that could arise within covenant communities when justice was sought or violated.

2. Ezekiel 25:15-17 – Here, the Philistines are described as acting “in vengeance and malice of soul” (v. 15), a clear portrayal of ongoing hostility.

Such references highlight that biblical enmity extends not only to spiritual matters but also to personal and communal relationships, often resulting in strife between individuals, families, and nations.

New Testament Usage and Broader Scope

In the New Testament, enmity retains its sense of hostility but is most powerfully portrayed in a spiritual sense—particularly the enmity existing between humanity and God because of sin. Paul writes in Romans 8:7: “The mind of the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so.” The Greek word ἔχθρα (echthra), translated as “enmity” or “hostility,” underscores the profound separation between fallen humanity and the holiness of God.

Additionally, James 4:4 states, “...friendship with the world is hostility toward God. Therefore whoever chooses to be a friend of the world renders himself an enemy of God.” This passage reiterates that enmity is not just external conflict but signifies a deep incompatibility with God’s righteous standards. Faith and obedience to God are portrayed as mutually exclusive to love for what Scripture terms “the world” in its fallen state.

Spiritual Significance

The theological and spiritual weight of enmity becomes particularly evident in the New Testament teaching on reconciliation. Ephesians 2:14-16 succinctly states, “For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility... to reconcile both of them to God in one body through the cross, by which He extinguished their hostility.” Here, “hostility” (a cognate of the same root for “enmity”) is completely undone through the sacrificial work of Christ.

This passage demonstrates the key biblical truth that enmity—both between people groups (Jews and Gentiles) and between humanity and God—is resolved at the cross. Through that singular, historical event, the fundamental problem of sin and hostility is addressed. As supported by numerous early New Testament manuscripts and corroborated by textual analysis across centuries, this core message of reconciliation stands consistently validated in the manuscript tradition.

Enmity in the Human Heart

Biblical teaching asserts that enmity resides in the human heart as a consequence of the fall. It manifests itself in conflict, hatred, and bitterness. Passages such as Galatians 5:19-21 align “hostility, strife, jealousy,” and other works of the flesh with a mindset opposed to God’s Spirit.

Behaviorally, individuals may exhibit enmity through harmful actions, words, or attitudes that sow division or animosity toward others. Philosophically, the existence of enmity stems from a nature that is fundamentally separated from God’s holiness, leading to fractious relationships with others and with God.

Overcoming Enmity and Pursuing Reconciliation

1. Christ’s Redemptive Work: Colossians 1:20-22 explains that God “reconciled everything to Himself...by making peace through the blood of His cross,” enabling believers to move from a state of alienation and hostility into friendship with God.

2. Personal Responsibility: Believers are charged to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). Forgiveness and love counteract enmity, reflecting God’s grace in human relationships.

3. Eternal Perspective: Ultimately, the Scriptures teach that the final eradication of enmity occurs within the future consummation of God’s plan, where all things are made new (Revelation 21:1-4).

Historical and Archaeological Insights

Multiple archaeological discoveries, such as the first-century synagogue at Magdala and excavations at Jerusalem’s City of David, corroborate people, places, and conflicts described in the Scriptures. These findings shed light on the real historical context in which hostility—both human and spiritual—was addressed by prophetic writings and New Testament teachings. Ancient inscriptions, coins, and manuscripts discovered across the Levant, combined with the broad manuscript evidence (including fragments of early Pauline letters), illuminate the depth and historical rootedness of the biblical narrative of enmity and reconciliation.

Conclusion

Enmity, in biblical terms, describes not merely a human condition of hostility but also a profound spiritual opposition that separates individuals from God. From the earliest chapters of Genesis, through the narratives of Israel’s history, to the culminating work of Christ, Scripture consistently depicts enmity as a serious breach that demands a decisive solution. The cross of Christ answers that enmity by providing the cornerstone of reconciliation, ultimately restoring those who receive this grace to a state of peace with God and unity with one another.