Overview
Scripture distinguishes between sinful hatred of people and righteous hatred of evil. Believers are called to hate what God hates—wickedness and rebellion against Him—while maintaining love and forgiveness toward others, even enemies. The psalms express intense opposition to God's enemies, while proverbs warn against the deceptiveness of hidden hatred.
Key Scriptures
"Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD? And do I not loathe those who rise up against you?" (Psalm 139:21, ESV). "Do I not hate them with complete hatred? I count them my enemies" (Psalm 139:22, ESV). "Then the presidents and satraps sought to find a ground for complaint against Daniel with regard to the kingdom, but they could find no ground for complaint or any fault, because he was faithful, and no error or fault was found in him" (Daniel 6:4, ESV). "Whoever hates his brother is a murderer" (1 John 3:15, ESV). "Whoever hates disguises it with his lips and harbors deceit in his heart" (Proverbs 26:24, NIV).
Application
Examine your heart to ensure disagreement with others' actions or beliefs doesn't become personal hatred, and cultivate genuine love even toward those you must oppose spiritually.