Brief Overview of κακοποιέω (Strong’s G2554: kakopoieō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in the New Testament is essential for accurate Biblical interpretation and grasping the cultural context of early Christianity. The Greek word κακοποιέω (kakopoieō), meaning “to do evil” or “to harm,” appears in contexts related to ethical and moral behavior. It is significant in both New Testament theology and ancient Greek culture as it provides insight into discussions of good versus evil and the consequences of malicious actions.

Key Information

Save with code – FOG20

• The Greek Word: κακοποιέω, transliterated as kakopoieō, pronounced [ka-ko-poi-EH-o].
• Etymology: Derived from κακός (kakos), meaning “bad” or “evil,” and ποιέω (poieō), meaning “to make” or “to do.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; describes the action of doing harm or committing evil acts.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To do evil: To commit actions that are considered morally wrong or harmful.
• To harm: To cause physical or emotional injury to another.
• To act wickedly: To behave in a way that is deliberately malicious or harmful.

Similar Words: κακοποιός (kakopoios) [ka-ko-POI-os] is a related Greek word that means “an evildoer” or “a person who commits harmful acts.” While κακοποιέω refers to the act of doing evil, κακοποιός focuses on the person who performs these actions.

Further Insights: κακοποιέω is a verb that follows the typical conjugation patterns of Greek verbs. Below is the full conjugation of κακοποιέω in the present active indicative:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines κακοποιέω as “to do evil” or “to cause harm,” often used in contexts that contrast good and evil behavior.
• Thayers: Highlights its usage in both active and passive forms to describe causing harm or acting maliciously.
• Vines: Emphasizes its moral implications, particularly in New Testament contexts where it contrasts with doing good or righteous acts.
• LSJ: Notes that κακοποιέω is used in classical Greek literature to describe actions that bring about harm or mischief.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists it as an action word that implies committing harmful or evil deeds, mainly used in a negative moral context.

Related Scripture References

• 1 Peter 3:17: “For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil [κακοποιοῦντας].”
• John 18:30: “They answered and said to him, ‘If he were not an evildoer [κακοποιῶν], we would not have delivered him up to you.'”

Classical Usage

Summary of κακοποιέω (G2554)

The Greek verb κακοποιέω (kakopoieō) is significant for understanding Biblical discussions on morality and ethics. It describes actions that are morally wrong or harmful and is frequently used in contexts where good behavior is contrasted with evil deeds. In both New Testament writings and classical Greek texts, κακοποιέω underscores the consequences of malicious behavior, making it a critical word for theological study and understanding ancient Greek moral philosophy.

Did You Know?

• κακοποιέω can be found in legal contexts in classical Greek literature, describing unlawful actions.
• It contrasts with καλοποιέω (kalopoieō), meaning “to do good.”
• The term is often used in exhortations in the New Testament to encourage believers to avoid malicious behavior and pursue righteousness.