The dictionary defines cursing as the act of cursing or swearing. From this definition, we can infer that cussing is a synonym of curse. While the Bible says nothing about cussing, it has a lot to say about cursing which is ultimately the same word. But cussing can also be defined as hurling profanities and the Bible has a lot to say on profane speech as well.
What the Bible Says About Cussing
Cussing or profanity is “chalal” in Hebrew or Koinos in Greek. In both cases, these words mean to defile, pollute to treat as common. These are the same words that are used for forbidden temple practices or ethically compromised behavior. Christians are called to represent Christ in both word and deed and that is the main reason why cussing is unchristian.
Cussing comes in different forms. It may involve reference to sexual parts or sexual actions (usually in a demeaning way), reference to what comes out of the body, or reference to spiritual terms in a manner that trivializes them (e.g. use of God’s name, hell, or damnation). The Bible teaches against any of these forms of cussing. Let us have a look at some Bible scriptures that exemplify this.
Corrupt Talk
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. Eph. 4:29
The scripture above talks about corrupt talk which is also translated as unwholesome talk or foul language. In the Bible, the word corrupt is also used to mean a degenerate state, debased state, spoiled, and dead. Ephesians does not just speak against using corrupt talk but goes ahead to describe the words that we should speak – only those that “build up and give grace to the hearer.”
Needless to say, cussing does not build up and neither is it gracious. Cussing is typically used to hurt the other person and that in itself is sin. Jesus taught us to love our neighbor as we love ourselves (Mathew 22:39) and to do to them as you would want to be done to you (Mathew 7:12). No one would want to be hurt and it is therefore your Christian duty to extend the same courtesy to others.
Obscene and Foolish Talk
Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk, or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. Ephesians 5:4
Even though we have mentioned that cussing is often used in hurtful ways, there are times when it is used casually in an endearing way or as a joke. And that is what the scripture above addresses. Even when using cuss words as “a coarse joke,” remember the Bible labels it as obscene and foolish.
The scripture above condemns obscenity, foolish talk, and coarse joking in the same breadth to underscore the weight of the matter. The modern church is trying to look for loopholes to allow cussing but the Bible is clearly against it.
The use of foolish talk as a synonym for cussing is quite grave. The Bible also likens atheism to foolishness (Psalms 14:1). This means that anyone who uses obscenities in their speech is no better than an atheist – they are both fools.
Bless Instead of Cursing
Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. James 3:10
As we have already seen, the dictionary uses cussing as a synonym for cursing. Even though many Christians may not realize it, cussing and cursing are the same thing. And right from the Abrahamic covenant, we know God’s stand on curses and blessings. Blessing brings life but cursing brings death.
James spends a lot of time addressing the issue of word usage. In the scripture above, he is expressing his disappointment at how Christians were using the same tongue to bless God and to curse people. He authoritatively states, “These things ought not so to be.” Jesus alluded to this when he said,
A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Mathew 7:18
As Christians, we must use our tongues to bless and not to curse.
Using God’s Name in Vain
You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain. Exodus 20:7
One of the most common cussing techniques is using the name of Jesus or God. This is so prevalent in our society that we almost think it is normal and okay. However, it is such a grievous sin that God forbade it as one of the commandments. And God also added the commentary – “the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.”
The name of the LORD is holy and it should only be used in reverence. It should never be used casually either as a joke or as an insult. But Jesus extended this commandment to remind us that even God’s throne as well as his creation shouldn’t be used in vain. Check it out;
but I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne: nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither shalt thou swear by thy head because thou canst not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil. Matthew 5:34-3.
The summary of Jesus’ teaching on swearing is, Don’t do it. Just use plain communication instead to avoid using evil words.
Conclusion
The Scriptures offer clear guidelines on the use of our words, emphasizing that our speech should be uplifting and edifying. For instance, Ephesians 4:29 instructs us to speak only what is good for building others up and giving grace. Likewise, Ephesians 5:4 warns against obscenity, foolish talk, and coarse joking, highlighting the importance of using our words wisely. Ultimately, as Christians, we are called to reflect Christ in all aspects of our lives, including our speech. Therefore, while the Bible may not directly address cussing, its teachings on speech provide a clear framework for how we should communicate with others.
