Types of wickedness in the Bible

         Wickedness in the Bible refers to behaviors, attitudes, and intentions that oppose God's righteousness and lead people away from truth, holiness, and love. The Bible categorizes wickedness not just by outward acts, but by the condition of the heart and rebellion against God. Below are key types of wickedness identified in Scripture, each supported by examples and Bible verses.

1. Idolatry

         Idolatry is one of the most condemned forms of wickedness in the Bible. It involves worshiping anything other than the one true God.

Example: The Israelites worshiped the golden calf while Moses was on Mount Sinai (Exodus 32:1–6).

    “You shall have no other gods before me.” Exodus 20:3

         Idolatry corrupts hearts and leads to a chain of other sins, including sexual immorality and injustice (Romans 1:21–25).

2. Murder and Shedding of Innocent Blood

         The intentional taking of innocent life is seen as wickedness that defiles the land.

Example: Cain killing Abel out of jealousy (Genesis 4:8).

    “The voice of your brother’s blood cries out to Me from the ground.” Genesis 4:10

         God condemns nations and individuals for this act (Proverbs 6:17).

3. Deceit and Lying

         Lying is a form of wickedness that destroys trust, causes division, and reflects Satan’s character.

Example: Ananias and Sapphira lied to the Holy Spirit and were struck dead (Acts 5:1–11).

    “Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are His delight.” Proverbs 12:22

          God detests dishonest scales, false witnesses, and deceitful hearts (Proverbs 6:16–19).

4. Injustice and Oppression

         This includes exploiting the poor, denying justice to the innocent, and using power to abuse others.

Example: King Ahab and Jezebel killed Naboth to seize his vineyard (1 Kings 21).

    “Woe to those who make unjust laws... to deprive the poor of their rights and withhold justice from the oppressed...” Isaiah 10:1–2

         God expects justice, mercy, and humility (Micah 6:8).

5. Pride and Arrogance

         Pride elevates the self above God and others. It is often the root of many other sins.

Example: Lucifer’s fall was caused by pride (Isaiah 14:12–15).

    “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:18

         God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).

6. Witchcraft and Sorcery

         Any involvement with occult practices is strictly condemned in Scripture and is considered spiritual rebellion.

Example: King Saul consulted a medium, which led to his downfall (1 Samuel 28).

    “Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft...” 1 Samuel 15:23

         Witchcraft opens doors to demonic influence and defiles the soul (Galatians 5:19–21).

7. Unbelief and Rejection of God

         Unbelief is not just a lack of faith, but a refusal to accept and trust in God's truth and authority.

Example: The Israelites who refused to enter the Promised Land due to fear (Numbers 14).

    “But the cowardly, unbelieving... shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone.” Revelation 21:8

         Jesus rebuked cities where He performed miracles but they still did not repent (Matthew 11:20–24).

8. Blasphemy

         This includes speaking irreverently about God, the Holy Spirit, or sacred things. It shows contempt for what is holy.

Example: The Pharisees accused Jesus of casting out demons by Satan’s power (Matthew 12:22–32).

    “Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven... but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.” Matthew 12:32

9. Covetousness and Greed

         Desiring what belongs to others can lead to theft, envy, and even murder.

Example: Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus for money (Matthew 26:14–16).

    “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil...” 1 Timothy 6:10

         Greed is called idolatry because it places material things above God (Colossians 3:5).

         The Bible paints wickedness as a heart condition that manifests in actions contrary to God's will. From idolatry to pride, and injustice to unbelief, wickedness leads to destruction and separation from God. Yet through repentance, the blood of Jesus, and walking in the Spirit, even the worst wickedness can be forgiven. God’s desire is not to destroy the wicked, but that they would turn from their ways and live (Ezekiel 33:11).