Bitterness, in the biblical context, is often associated with a deep-seated resentment or a hardened heart that can lead to spiritual and relational discord. The Bible warns against allowing bitterness to take root in one's life, as it can defile and disrupt both personal and communal harmony.

In the Old Testament, bitterness is frequently linked with suffering and hardship. For instance, the Israelites experienced bitterness during their enslavement in Egypt, as described in Exodus 1:14: "They made their lives bitter with hard labor in brick and mortar and with all kinds of work in the fields; in all their hard labor, the Egyptians used them