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G1847 · Greek · New Testament
ἐξουδενόω
exoudenoo
Verb
to set at nothing; to treat with contempt; to make of no account

Definition

Exoudenoo (variant: exoutheneo) means to treat as nothing (ouden = nothing). In Mark 9:12 it is used of the Son of Man being 'treated with contempt.' In Luke 23:11 Herod and his soldiers 'treated him with contempt' and mocked him. The word describes the complete dismissal of someone's worth or significance — treating a person as if they were literally nothing.

Usage & Theological Significance

The exoudenoo of Jesus by Herod is the fulfillment of Isaiah 53:3: 'despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows.' The one through whom all things were made is treated as nothing. This is the paradox of the cross: the One of infinite worth receives the treatment of one who is worthless. And He receives it voluntarily, in our place, because He knew our worth even when we could not see His. The contempt shown to the King becomes the currency of our dignity. He was treated as nothing so we might become sons and daughters of God.

Key Verses

Mark 9:12 And how is it written of the Son of Man that he should suffer many things and be treated with contempt [exoudenethei]?
Luke 23:11 And Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt [exouthenesai] and mocked him.
Isaiah 53:3 He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.
1 Corinthians 1:28 God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are.
Luke 18:9 He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt [exouthenountas].

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