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What does "Raca" mean in the Bible?

Title of disrespect

Raca is an Aramaic term of contempt that appears only once in the Bible, in Matthew 5:22.

What does the Bible say about Raca?

Raca is an Aramaic term of contempt that appears only once in the Bible, in Matthew 5:22. It comes from the Aramaic word "reqa," meaning "empty-headed," "worthless," or "foolish." In this passage, Jesus warns that anyone who uses this insulting term against another person will be subject to judgment, equating it with murder. He emphasizes that the use of such disparaging language comes from an angry and murderous heart, which God will judge. The severity of the punishment Jesus describes underscores the seriousness of using contemptuous language and the importance of treating others with respect. Jesus' teaching on this matter highlights the deeper, spiritual meaning of the law against murder, showing that God is concerned not only with outward actions but also with the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Definition text: STEPBible · Tyndale House Cambridge. Licensed CC BY 4.0. Lightly edited for length and formatting.

Compiled by Protos: the verse list on this page. Where one name belongs to more than one person or place, each of them gets a separate entry.

Where does Raca appear in the Bible?

Raca is referenced in 1 verse. Every passage below is about this one, not just every verse the word turns up in.

Matthew 1

What else appears in these passages?

These turn up in the same passages as Raca.

BrotherHell

Common questions

How many times does the Bible mention Raca?

Raca appears once in the Bible, in Matthew 5:22.

Which books of the Bible mention Raca?

Just one: Matthew.

Where can I read every verse about Raca?

This page lists 1 of them. Protos carries all 1, and opens this entry on the verse you are reading rather than in a separate tab.

Read it in context

Read Matthew with "Raca" explained on the verse.

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