What is the origin of stiff necked?

The phrase "stiff-necked" has been used for centuries to describe someone who is stubborn, proud, or unwilling to compromise. It's origin can be traced back to the Bible, where it's used several times to describe the Israelites' stubbornness and disobedience to God.

One of the earliest mentions of a stiff neck in the Bible is in Exodus 32:9 where God says to Moses, "I have seen this people, and behold they are a stiff-necked people." In this instance, God is referring to the Israelites' decision to make and worship a golden calf, despite being warned not to create false images or idols.

The phrase is mentioned several times in the Old Testament to express displeasure when individuals or groups show resistance or disregard for God's commandments. For example, in Deuteronomy 9:6-7, Moses tells the Israelites, "Understand that it is not because of your righteousness that the Lord your God is giving you this good land to possess, for you are a stiff-necked people." Here, God is reminding them that their success and possession of the land of promise is not due to their own merits, but despite their rebellious nature.

In the New Testament, the term is mentioned in both a literal and figurative sense. For example, in Mark 9:18, it is used to describe a boy struggling with epilepsy, who had a "dumb spirit" and would throw himself on the ground and grind his teeth. The term in this context refers to the boy's physical ailment.

Overall, the origin of the phrase "stiff-necked" is primarily biblical. However, its usage later expanded to include non-religious contexts, and today it is commonly used to describe stubborness or strong resistance.