Scorning and mocking are behaviors frequently addressed in the Bible, often associated with foolishness, pride, and rebellion against God. These actions are depicted as contrary to the wisdom and humility that God desires from His people. The Bible provides numerous examples of both individuals and rulers who engaged in scorning and mocking, often leading to their downfall or divine judgment.

Biblical Instances of Scorning and Mocking

1. Ishmael's Mocking of Isaac: In Genesis 21:9, Ishmael, the son of Hagar, is seen mocking Isaac, the son of promise. This act of scorn led to significant familial strife and ultimately resulted in Hagar and Ishmael being sent away. This incident underscores the destructive nature of mocking within relationships.

2. The Mocking of Elisha: In 2 Kings 2:23-24, a group of youths mocked the prophet Elisha, calling him "baldhead." Their scorn was met with severe consequences as two bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of them. This event highlights the seriousness with which God regards the mocking of His servants.

3. Sanballat and Tobiah's Mockery: During the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, Nehemiah faced opposition from Sanballat and Tobiah, who mocked and ridiculed the efforts of the Jews (Nehemiah 4:1-3). Despite their scorn, Nehemiah and the people persevered, demonstrating that faithfulness to God's work can overcome derision.

4. Jesus Mocked by Soldiers and Bystanders: The Gospels recount the mocking of Jesus during His trial and crucifixion. In Matthew 27:29-31, Roman soldiers mocked Him, placing a crown of thorns on His head and hailing Him as "King of the Jews." Bystanders also mocked Him as He hung on the cross (Matthew 27:39-44). These acts of scorn fulfilled prophetic scriptures and highlighted the depth of human sinfulness.

Rulers and Scorning

1. Pharaoh's Hardness of Heart: Pharaoh's repeated refusal to heed Moses' warnings and his mocking attitude towards the God of Israel (Exodus 5:2) led to the plagues that devastated Egypt. His scornful heart exemplifies the peril of prideful defiance against God's commands.

2. King Sennacherib of Assyria: In 2 Kings 18:28-35, Sennacherib mocked the God of Israel, boasting of his military conquests and ridiculing the idea that any god could deliver Jerusalem from his hand. His scorn was met with divine retribution when an angel of the Lord struck down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers (2 Kings 19:35).

3. Herod's Mockery of Jesus: In Luke 23:11, Herod Antipas, after questioning Jesus, mocked Him by dressing Him in a splendid robe and sending Him back to Pilate. Herod's scornful treatment of Jesus reflects the disdain of worldly rulers for divine authority.

Wisdom Literature on Scorning and Mocking

The Book of Proverbs frequently addresses the folly of scorners and mockers. Proverbs 9:7-8 warns against correcting a mocker, as they will only hate you, while Proverbs 21:24 describes the proud and arrogant as "scoffer" is his name. These verses emphasize the destructive nature of scorn and the wisdom in avoiding such behavior.

Divine Perspective on Scorning

God's perspective on scorning is clear: it is an affront to His holiness and order. Psalm 1:1 blesses the man who does not sit in the seat of mockers, indicating that righteousness is incompatible with scornful behavior. Furthermore, Galatians 6:7 reminds believers, "Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. Whatever a man sows, he will reap in return." This principle underscores the inevitable consequences of mocking God and His ways.

In summary, the Bible consistently portrays scorning and mocking as behaviors that lead to judgment and separation from God's favor. Whether exhibited by individuals or rulers, these actions are condemned and serve as warnings to those who would defy divine authority.Luke 23:35
And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... of Agade, and to his son Istaramsin, the subjection of the people of the ... It does
not appear, however, that the ancient rulers of Lagash ever extended their ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

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