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G953 · Greek · New Testament
Βεβηλόω
Bebēloō
Verb
To profane, desecrate

Definition

The Greek verb bebēloō means to profane, desecrate, or treat as common what is holy. It is the verbal form of bebēlos and describes the act of stripping something of its sacred character. In the New Testament it appears twice — in Matthew 12:5 (priests "profane" the sabbath by working) and Acts 24:6 (Paul accused of profaning the temple).

Usage & Theological Significance

Jesus' use of bebēloō in Matthew 12:5 is deliberately provocative: even the Torah-commanded work of priests technically "profanes" the sabbath, yet they are guiltless. His point is that something greater than the temple is here — the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath. The charge against Paul in Acts 24:6 (profaning the temple) was false; he was proclaiming the One who fulfills and transcends the temple. Both uses highlight a theology of fulfillment: the old holy things point to Christ, and in Him all things are made holy.

Key Bible Verses

Matthew 12:5 Or have you not read in the Law how on the Sabbath the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath and are guiltless?
Acts 24:6 He even tried to profane the temple, but we seized him.
Ezekiel 22:8 You have despised my holy things and profaned my Sabbaths.
Nehemiah 13:17 Then I confronted the nobles of Judah and said to them, 'What is this evil thing that you are doing, profaning the Sabbath day?'
Malachi 2:11 Judah has been faithless, and abomination has been committed in Israel and in Jerusalem. For Judah has profaned the sanctuary of the LORD.

Related Words

External Resources

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