σκληροκαρδία

The Greek word σκληροκαρδία (sklērokardia) refers to a condition of the heart characterized by hardness. This physical metaphor of hardness is used to describe an emotional state. The lemma σκληροκαρδία appears a total of three times in the Bible, indicating a significant yet nuanced concept. The use of σκληροκαρδία implies that a person has become resistant, unyielding, or unresponsive to external influences, such as God's message or moral guidance. This emotional unresponsiveness is likened to a hardened physical heart, which cannot be transformed or changed. Through this biblical imagery, the writers convey the idea that some individuals refuse to consider or change their thoughts and actions, even when faced with evidence or warnings from others.