Scoffing
In the Bible, "scoffing" generally refers to a form of mockery or derision, often directed towards God, His people, or spiritual matters. The Hebrew word often associated with scoffing is "לָעַג" (la'ag), which conveys the idea of expressing contempt or disdain. In Proverbs 1:22, for instance, wisdom personified calls out to the "simple" and "scoffers," indicating that scoffers are those who reject wisdom and understanding. Similarly, in Psalm 1:1, the psalmist notes that the blessed person does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the way of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers, highlighting the negative connotation of scoffing in the context of faithfulness to God.In the New Testament, scoffing can be seen in the attitudes of those who mock the teachings of Christ or the reality of His resurrection. For example, in 2 Peter 3:3, it states, "Knowing this first: that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts," indicating that scoffing is often linked with moral decline and disbelief. Ultimately, scoffing represents a rejection of truth and a stance of opposition toward divine wisdom and revelation, serving as a warning against the dangers of pride and unbelief.