Hatred is a strong, destructive emotion that tears apart relationships, communities, and even our spiritual well-being. Whether it’s caused by betrayal, envy, or fear, the Bible speaks directly and strongly about how we should not harbor hate toward others. Instead, we are called to love, forgive, and pursue peace.
If you’ve ever wrestled with anger or resentment, you’re not alone. Scripture acknowledges our struggles and provides a better way—God’s way. These Bible verses about hatred towards others offer wisdom, correction, and hope for anyone seeking a more loving and God-honoring path.
Let’s walk through 35 powerful verses that challenge us to let go of hate and reflect God’s love instead.
35 Bible Verses About Hatred Towards Others
1. 1 John 4:20
If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar…
Explanation: You can’t truly love God and hate others. This verse reminds us that our love for God must show in our relationships.
2. Proverbs 10:12
Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.
Explanation: Hate creates conflict, but love brings healing and peace in relationships.
3. Leviticus 19:17
You shall not hate your brother in your heart…
Explanation: God commands us not only to avoid harmful actions but to cleanse hatred from our hearts.
4. Matthew 5:44
But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…
Explanation: Jesus takes love to a higher level—praying for even those who wrong us.
5. Romans 12:17-18
Repay no one evil for evil… live peaceably with all.
Explanation: Our goal isn’t revenge but peace, even when it’s hard.
6. 1 John 2:9
Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness.
Explanation: Hate shows we’re walking in spiritual darkness, not in God’s truth.
7. Titus 3:3
For we ourselves were once foolish… hating one another.
Explanation: Paul reminds us that hate was part of our old life—God calls us to something better now.
8. Matthew 22:39
You shall love your neighbor as yourself.
Explanation: Love is a basic command, meant for all—not just those we like.
9. Luke 6:27
Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.
Explanation: Jesus commands action—responding to hate with kindness and love.
10. Proverbs 15:1
A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Explanation: How we respond to hate can either calm the storm or make it worse.
11. Ephesians 4:31
Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you…
Explanation: Paul urges believers to release all negative emotions, including hatred.
12. Colossians 3:8
But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice…
Explanation: Hatred and its cousins have no place in a believer’s heart.
13. Psalm 97:10
O you who love the Lord, hate evil!
Explanation: We’re called to hate sin, not people. There’s a big difference.
14. Galatians 5:19-21
…enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger… those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom…
Explanation: Hatred is listed among sinful behaviors that separate us from God.
15. 1 Peter 3:9
Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling…
Explanation: We’re called to bless others, even when they wrong us.
16. 1 Corinthians 13:5
…love is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.
Explanation: Real love doesn’t hold onto bitterness or hatred.
17. James 1:20
For the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
Explanation: Human anger often leads us away from God’s heart and will.
18. Romans 12:21
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Explanation: Love and goodness are the true weapons against hatred.
19. 1 Thessalonians 5:15
See that no one repays anyone evil for evil…
Explanation: Revenge fuels hatred, but forgiveness brings peace.
20. Matthew 6:14
For if you forgive others… your heavenly Father will also forgive you.
Explanation: Forgiveness heals hate—and it’s something God expects from us.
21. James 4:1-2
What causes quarrels and fights among you?
Explanation: Hatred often begins with selfish desires. This verse calls us to examine our hearts.
22. Psalm 34:14
Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.
Explanation: A godly life means actively choosing peace over hate.
23. 1 John 3:15
Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer…
Explanation: Hatred is spiritually deadly—it’s compared to murder in God’s eyes.
24. John 13:34
A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another…
Explanation: Jesus’ command is clear—love should define our lives, not hate.
25. Philippians 2:3
Do nothing from selfish ambition… but in humility count others more significant.
Explanation: Hatred fades when we humble ourselves and see others through God’s eyes.
26. Hebrews 12:14
Strive for peace with everyone…
Explanation: Peace is not automatic—we must pursue it intentionally.
27. Proverbs 20:22
Do not say, “I will repay evil”…
Explanation: Leave justice to God. Retaliation leads to more hate.
28. Ecclesiastes 7:9
Be not quick in your spirit to become angry…
Explanation: Quick anger often leads to lasting hatred. Patience is wisdom.
29. 1 Peter 4:8
Above all, keep loving one another earnestly…
Explanation: Love covers many sins and prevents hate from taking root.
30. Matthew 5:9
Blessed are the peacemakers…
Explanation: When we pursue peace over hatred, we reflect God’s nature.
31. Galatians 6:1
If anyone is caught in sin, restore him in a spirit of gentleness…
Explanation: Love corrects gently. Hatred only condemns and divides.
32. Romans 13:10
Love does no wrong to a neighbor…
Explanation: If we truly love others, we won’t harm or hate them.
33. Proverbs 14:29
Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding…
Explanation: Controlling anger shows wisdom and prevents hateful actions.
34. Psalm 11:5
The Lord tests the righteous… and His soul hates the wicked and the one who loves violence.
Explanation: God opposes those who delight in harming others. We should do the opposite.
35. Zechariah 8:17
Do not devise evil in your hearts against one another…
Explanation: Hatred often begins in the heart. God wants purity and peace to begin there, too.
Choosing Love Over Hatred
The Bible doesn’t leave room for hatred toward others. Instead, we are shown a better way—love, humility, forgiveness, and peace. These Bible verses about hatred towards others challenge us to let go of resentment and let God’s love transform our relationships.
No matter how difficult it may seem, God equips us through His Spirit to love even when it’s hard. Hatred weighs us down, but love sets us free.
Which of these Scriptures spoke to you the most? Share your story, favorite verse, or insight in the comments below. You never know who might be encouraged by your words today.