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Blasphemed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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blasphemed

[blæsfim ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

religious criticism

To blaspheme means to speak irreverently about God or sacred things. It often involves actions or utterances that show contempt or lack of respect towards religious beliefs. Blasphemy is considered a serious offense in many religions and cultures.

Synonyms

curse, defy, denounce, profane, slander.

Examples of usage

  • He blasphemed against the teachings of the church.
  • The novel was criticized for blaspheming historical figures.
  • In some countries, it is illegal to blaspheme.
  • She was accused of blaspheming during the debate.
  • They believed that he would be punished for his blasphemies.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Religious Significance

  • In many religious texts, blasphemy is considered a grave sin, impacting one’s spiritual standing.
  • During the Middle Ages, blasphemy was punishable by severe penalties, including excommunication or execution.
  • Islam and Christianity both have strict interpretations of blasphemy, leading to significant historical events like the Inquisition.

Legal Perspectives

  • Several countries have laws against blasphemy, which can lead to imprisonment or fines, especially if it’s seen as inciting violence.
  • In recent years, debates have arisen about the balance between free speech and protection against blasphemy in various legal systems.
  • The UK officially abolished its blasphemy laws in 2008, signaling a shift in how society views free expression.

Cultural Impact

  • Throughout history, many artists have faced backlash for their works deemed blasphemous, sparking important discussions on freedom of expression.
  • The phrase 'blasphemy against the Holy Spirit' appears in the New Testament and has significant interpretations in Christian doctrine.
  • Contemporary humor often pushes against boundaries, with comedians using blasphemy to comment on societal norms.

Psychological Aspects

  • Blasphemous thoughts or expressions can evoke strong emotional reactions, including anger and fear, in communities where beliefs are deeply held.
  • Some psychologists suggest that expressing blasphemous ideas may be a way to challenge authority or societal norms, providing a sense of empowerment.
  • The psychological conflict between personal beliefs and societal expectations can lead to internal struggles around the use of blasphemy.

Origin of 'blasphemed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'blasphemia', meaning 'slander' or 'to speak evil'.
  • It entered the English language in the 14th century, reflecting a growing concern over religious speech.
  • Originally, it pertained mainly to offenses against God, but its application has broadened over time.

The term 'blaspheme' originates from the Old French word 'blasfemer', which is derived from the Latin 'blasphemare'. The Latin word is a combination of 'blasphemia,' meaning 'to speak evil' or 'to slander.' Historically, the concept of blasphemy has been associated with religious contexts, particularly within the Christian, Jewish, and Islamic faiths, where uttering disrespectful remarks about God or sacred doctrines is deemed offensive and punishable. In many cultures, blasphemy is not only a religious violation but also a legal one, subjecting offenders to severe penalties, including banishment or death. The word has evolved through the centuries, reflecting changes in societal values and the degree of freedom individuals have to express dissenting views about religion and beliefs.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,711 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.