Topical Encyclopedia The term "dishonorable" refers to actions, behaviors, or characteristics that are considered shameful, disgraceful, or lacking in integrity according to biblical standards. In the Scriptures, dishonor is often contrasted with honor, which is associated with righteousness, respect, and adherence to God's commandments.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, dishonor is frequently associated with actions that violate God's laws and commandments. For example, in the Ten Commandments, dishonoring one's parents is explicitly condemned: "Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land the LORD your God is giving you" (Exodus 20:12). The inverse, dishonoring parents, is seen as a serious offense with societal and spiritual implications. The book of Proverbs often contrasts honorable and dishonorable behavior. Proverbs 11:22 states, "Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful woman who lacks discretion" , illustrating how external beauty is rendered dishonorable by a lack of wisdom and discretion. New Testament Context In the New Testament, dishonor is addressed in the context of Christian conduct and relationships. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently exhorts believers to live honorably. In Romans 1:24, Paul describes how God gave people over to "dishonorable passions" as a consequence of their idolatry and rejection of His truth: "Therefore God gave them over in the desires of their hearts to impurity for the dishonoring of their bodies with one another" . Paul also addresses the concept of dishonor in the context of the church and spiritual gifts. In 1 Corinthians 12:23, he writes, "And the parts we consider less honorable, we treat with greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with special modesty" . Here, Paul emphasizes the importance of valuing all members of the body of Christ, regardless of perceived honor or dishonor. Moral and Ethical Implications Dishonorable actions are often linked to moral and ethical failures. In Ephesians 5:11-12, Paul instructs believers to "Have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret" . This passage highlights the call for Christians to avoid and expose dishonorable deeds, emphasizing the importance of living in the light of Christ. Cultural and Social Considerations In biblical times, honor and dishonor were deeply embedded in the cultural and social fabric. Honor was associated with social standing, reputation, and adherence to community norms. Dishonor, conversely, could lead to social ostracism and familial shame. The biblical narrative often reflects these cultural dynamics, as seen in the account of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), where the son's initial actions bring dishonor, but his repentance and return are met with restoration and honor. Conclusion The concept of dishonor in the Bible serves as a warning against behaviors and attitudes that deviate from God's standards. It calls believers to pursue a life of integrity, respect, and righteousness, reflecting the character of Christ in all aspects of life. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Wanting in honor; not honorable; bringing or deserving dishonor; staining the character, and lessening the reputation; shameful; disgraceful; base.2. (a.) Wanting in honor or esteem; disesteemed. Greek 819. atimia -- dishonor ... Feminine Transliteration: atimia Phonetic Spelling: (at-ee-mee'-ah) Short Definition: disgrace, dishonor Definition: disgrace, dishonor; a dishonorable use. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/819.htm - 7k Library 1 Cor. xii. 21 Our Status. Whether Unlawful Intercourse Causes Affinity? Justification from Eternity "The Lord is Good" Chastisement Concerning the Embassage of the Jews to Caius; and How Caius Sent ... Motives to the Oversight of the Flock The Living Word The Law. Thesaurus Dishonorable (1 Occurrence)... disgraceful; base. 2. (a.) Wanting in honor or esteem; disesteemed. Multi-Version Concordance Dishonorable (1 Occurrence). Romans 1 ... /d/dishonorable.htm - 7k Dishonored (17 Occurrences) Dishonor (47 Occurrences) Vile (59 Occurrences) Villany (4 Occurrences) Noble (61 Occurrences) Low (216 Occurrences) Foul (41 Occurrences) Taint (1 Occurrence) Disgraceful (17 Occurrences) Resources What is the seal of God? | GotQuestions.orgHow does the Bible describe the glorified bodies we will possess in Heaven? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of a footstool in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Dishonorable: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Dishonorable (1 Occurrence)Romans 1:26 Subtopics Related Terms |