Persecution

Persecution is the systematic, severe, and unlawful mistreatment or harassment of individuals or groups, often driven by political, religious, racial, or ideological motives. It involves the intentional deprivation of fundamental human rights and often includes violence, torture, wrongful imprisonment, or harassment. 

Key Aspects of Persecution:

• Motives: Usually based on an individual's or group's identity, such as race, religion, political opinion, nationality, or sexual orientation.

• Severity: It goes beyond simple discrimination or prejudice, often involving a sustained or widespread effort to intimidate, exclude, or eliminate the target.

• Forms:
  Includes physical violence (killing, torture, sexual abuse), economic repression (denial of employment, housing), legal persecution (arbitrary arrest, unfair trials), and severe psychological pressure.

• Context: While it can be state-sponsored (organized by governments), it can also come from societal hostility (organized groups, mobs, or extremism). 

Legal Definition (International Law):

Persecution is recognized as a crime against humanity when committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack against any civilian population, according to the Statute of the International Criminal Court. This definition includes the severe deprivation of fundamental rights. 

Mat 5:10  Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Mat 5:12  Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

Jhn1 5:20  Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.