Results: Why Do We Hate?

Hate has been called the most toxic emotion we as humans experience. Do you ever wonder why people hate others?

Hate is defined as "intense or passionate dislike", often completely without reason. I can perhaps understand hating someone who is so abhorrent (child molester, elder abuser) but what I don't understand is hate aimed at someone or some group for no good reason. Hate has been described widely as an emotion, but also as an attitude or a sentiment. Some scholars think that hate is an extreme version of anger or dislike; some describe hate as a blend of emotions such as anger, contempt and disgust; and others regard hate as a distinct and unique feeling. Have you ever really hated someone or some group?

Hate is a toxic emotion, and it can affect your well being and mental state. At the heart of all hatred is blame, and this is particularly true for hatred turned outward. When one feels like they've been seriously wronged or victimized by someone, their discontent and anger carries with it the potential seeds of hatred. To be so focused on hating someone that it consumes your thoughts, actions and time is very destructive, not only to the intended target, but to your self. Have you ever felt consumed by hate?

The more you hold onto hatred, the more likely it is that the hot coal of the emotion will burn you. And the more you feed it, the stronger it becomes. Have you ever been able to take your hatred, and turn it into forgiveness or at the very least, let it go?