Bible Dictionary
Hypocrite
A hypocrite is a person who conceals his true character behind a religious appearance and pretends to be what he is not. Scripture condemns hypocrisy as dissimulation before God and others.
Definition
A hypocrite is one who conceals his real character behind a religious appearance and pretends to be what he is not. Hypocrisy is religious dissimulation, presenting an outward form that does not correspond to inward character or conduct.
Biblical Usage
Jesus severely rebuked the scribes and Pharisees for hypocrisy in their religious practices. Scripture also warns that the hypocrite’s hope will perish. In Job, however, the Hebrew term translated “hypocrite” more properly means the godless or profane.
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
One who puts on a mask and feigns himself to be what he is not; a dissembler in religion. Our Lord severely rebuked the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy (Matt. 6:2, 5, 16). “The hypocrite’s hope shall perish” (Job 8:13). The Hebrew word here rendered “hypocrite” rather means the “godless” or “profane,” as it is rendered in Jer. 23:11, i.e., polluted with crimes.