Enmity Mean in the Bible: Powerful Biblical Word (2026)

In the Bible, enmity means deep hostility, opposition, or spiritual conflict, especially between good and evil, God and sin, or humanity and Satan.
It describes a state of intense separation that goes beyond simple disagreement and often reflects moral or spiritual opposition.

Some words in the Bible feel heavy the moment you read them. Enmity is one of those words. It carries weight, emotion, and spiritual meaning that goes far beyond everyday conflict. When Scripture uses the word enmity, it is not talking about a mild disagreement or a temporary argument. It points to something deeper, more permanent, and often cosmic in scope.

Understanding what enmity means in the Bible helps unlock key passages in both the Old and New Testaments. It sheds light on humanity’s relationship with sin, explains spiritual warfare, and even helps readers grasp the foundation of redemption. Whether you are studying Scripture seriously or simply curious about biblical language, this term deserves a closer look.

Biblical Definition of Enmity

In biblical terms, enmity refers to a state of deep-rooted hostility, hatred, or opposition that exists between two parties who are fundamentally opposed in nature or purpose. The Bible often uses this word to describe moral, spiritual, or covenant-level conflict rather than personal dislike.

Key characteristics of biblical enmity include
• Long-lasting opposition
• Moral or spiritual separation
• Conflict rooted in values, obedience, or allegiance
• Often initiated or acknowledged by God for redemptive purposes

Unlike casual anger, enmity in Scripture usually signals an ongoing struggle with spiritual consequences.

Origin of the Word “Enmity”

Linguistic Roots

The English word enmity comes from the Latin word inimicitia, meaning hatred or hostility. This idea carried over into early English Bible translations.

In the original biblical languages, the word takes on even richer meaning.

Hebrew Origins

In the Old Testament, enmity often translates from the Hebrew word “eybah”, which conveys
• Deep hatred
• Hostility between enemies
• Persistent opposition

This word is not used lightly and usually appears in serious moral or spiritual contexts.

Greek Origins

In the New Testament, enmity commonly comes from the Greek word “echthra”. This term refers to
• Active hostility
• Personal or spiritual antagonism
• Opposition rooted in nature or allegiance

Together, these roots show that enmity in the Bible is intentional, serious, and enduring.

Where Enmity Appears in the Bible

The First Mention of Enmity

The earliest and most famous appearance of enmity in the Bible is found in Genesis 3:15, often called the Protoevangelium or first gospel promise.

God says to the serpent
“I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers.”

This verse introduces enmity as a divinely established conflict between
• Evil and humanity
• Satan and God’s redemptive plan
• Sin and righteousness

This is not a random disagreement. It is the foundation of spiritual warfare.

Enmity in the Old Testament

In the Old Testament, enmity often describes
• Hostility between nations
• Opposition between God’s people and idolatry
• Moral separation between righteousness and wickedness

Enmity reflects covenant loyalty or rebellion rather than personal feelings.

Enmity in the New Testament

The New Testament expands the meaning further. Enmity appears in discussions about
• Sinful human nature
• Hostility toward God
• Division caused by the law before Christ

Paul frequently uses the word to explain what Christ came to destroy or heal.

Spiritual Meaning of Enmity in Scripture

Enmity in the Bible is not merely emotional. It is deeply spiritual.

Enmity Between Humanity and God

Before reconciliation through Christ, Scripture teaches that sin places humans in a state of enmity with God.

This does not mean God hates people. It means sin creates opposition to God’s holiness and authority.

As a Sign of Spiritual Alignment

Biblical enmity often reveals allegiance.
• Friendship with sin places a person at odds with God
• Alignment with righteousness creates opposition to evil

This concept appears clearly in James, where friendship with the world is described as hostility toward God.

Redemption and Enmity

One of the most powerful biblical themes is that Jesus removes enmity. Through His sacrifice, hostility between God and humanity is replaced with peace.

Examples of Enmity in the Bible

1: Spiritual Conflict (Serious Tone)

Genesis 3:15 shows enmity between the serpent and humanity.
Context: This enmity represents the ongoing struggle between evil and God’s redemptive plan.
Tone: Serious and prophetic

2: Moral Opposition (Neutral Teaching Tone)

Romans 8:7 states that the carnal mind is at enmity with God.
Context: Paul explains how sinful nature resists God’s law.
Tone: Instructional and corrective

3: Reconciliation Through Christ (Hopeful Tone 😊)

Ephesians 2:14–16 explains that Christ abolished enmity.
Context: Jesus unites Jews and Gentiles, removing hostility.
Tone: Hopeful and celebratory

Table: Key Bible Verses That Use “Enmity”

Bible Verse	Context	Meaning of Enmity
Genesis 3:15	Fall of humanity	Spiritual conflict between good and evil
Romans 8:7	Human nature	Opposition of sinful mind toward God
Ephesians 2:16	Redemption	Hostility removed through Christ
James 4:4	Worldliness	Loyalty conflict between God and the world

How Enmity Differs From Similar Biblical Terms

Table: Enmity Compared With Related Terms

Term	Meaning	Biblical Usage
Enmity	Deep-rooted hostility	Moral or spiritual opposition
Hatred	Strong dislike	Emotional or moral reaction
Wrath	Righteous anger	God’s judgment against sin
Strife	Conflict or discord	Interpersonal or communal tension

Enmity stands out because it describes a state of opposition, not just an emotion.

Alternate Meanings of Enmity

Outside the Bible, enmity can simply mean personal hostility between individuals or groups. In literature or legal language, it may refer to political or social opposition.

In Scripture, however, the meaning is almost always elevated to a moral or spiritual level. The biblical usage is richer and more purposeful.

Polite or Professional Alternatives to “Enmity”

In modern writing or teaching, the word enmity may feel heavy. Depending on context, alternatives can include
• Hostility
• Opposition
• Conflict
• Moral separation
• Spiritual resistance

These alternatives work well in professional or educational settings while preserving meaning.

Practical Usage Tips for Readers and Students

When studying or using the word enmity in a biblical context
• Always consider spiritual implications
• Look at covenant or moral alignment
• Avoid reducing it to personal dislike
• Study surrounding verses carefully

This approach keeps interpretation accurate and respectful of Scripture.

Table: Enmity in Biblical Theology

Area	Role of Enmity
Creation	Introduced after the fall
Law	Reveals hostility of sin
Gospel	Removes enmity through Christ
Christian Life	Calls believers to reject sin

FAQs

What does enmity mean in simple biblical terms?
In the Bible, enmity means deep spiritual hostility or opposition, often between sin and righteousness or God and rebellion.

Is enmity always a bad thing in Scripture?
Not always. God sometimes establishes enmity to protect holiness and resist evil.

Who is at enmity with God according to the Bible?
Scripture teaches that sinful human nature is opposed to God until reconciliation through Christ.

Does Jesus remove enmity in the Bible?
Yes. The New Testament emphasizes that Christ abolishes enmity and brings peace.

What is the most important verse about enmity?
Genesis 3:15 is foundational because it introduces spiritual conflict and redemption.

Is enmity the same as hatred?
No. Enmity describes a state of opposition, while hatred is an emotion.

How does enmity affect Christian living?
Believers are called to reject sin and remain opposed to evil while living in peace with God.

Can enmity exist between believers?
Scripture discourages this and calls for reconciliation, humility, and unity.

Conclusion:

Enmity in the Bible is a powerful concept that explains spiritual conflict, moral opposition, and the need for redemption. It is not about petty disagreements or personal grudges. Scripture uses the word to describe deep-rooted hostility between opposing forces, especially between sin and God’s holiness.

The good news is that the Bible does not leave humanity trapped in enmity. Through Jesus Christ, hostility is replaced with peace, separation becomes reconciliation, and spiritual conflict finds resolution. Understanding this term enriches biblical study and deepens appreciation for the message of redemption.