Brief Overview of κακολογέω (Strong’s G2551: kakologeō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words like κακολογέω (kakologeō) is vital for deeper Biblical studies, as it provides insights into the ethical teachings of the New Testament. The word, which means “to speak evil of” or “to curse,” reflects attitudes and behaviors that are contrary to the teachings of Christ. It reveals the importance of guarding one’s speech and aligns with broader ancient Greek cultural discussions on morality and conduct.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: κακολογέω, transliterated as kakologeō, pronounced [ka-ko-lo-GEH-o].
• Etymology: Derived from κακός (kakos), meaning “bad” or “evil,” and λέγω (legō), meaning “to speak.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; generally used in the active voice to describe the action of speaking ill of someone or something.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To Speak Evil Of: To verbally malign or disparage someone.
• To Curse: To pronounce a curse or invoke harm upon another through words.
• To Revile: To criticize in an abusive or angrily insulting manner.

Similar Words: καταλαλέω (katalaleō) [ka-ta-la-LEH-o] is another Greek word that means “to speak against” or “to slander.” While both words involve speaking negatively, κακολογέω emphasizes the harm and evil intention behind the speech, whereas καταλαλέω focuses on defamation or spreading harmful rumors.

Further Insights: κακολογέω is a regular verb and follows standard conjugation patterns in Greek. It is often found in contexts that discuss moral and ethical behavior, especially in Christian teachings. Below is the present indicative active conjugation chart:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines κακολογέω as “to speak evil of” or “to curse,” highlighting its use in moral exhortations against harmful speech in the New Testament.
• Thayers: Describes it as “to revile” or “to speak reproachfully,” particularly noting its occurrence in contexts that warn against improper behavior.
• Vines: Emphasizes its meaning of “to curse” or “to verbally abuse,” making it synonymous with other terms for verbal malice.
• LSJ: Indicates that κακολογέω can mean “to malign” or “to insult,” pointing to its use in Greek literature to describe derogatory speech.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Notes κακολογέω as “to speak evil of,” often associated with exhortations for righteous living.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 15:4: “For God said, ‘Honor your father and mother,’ and, ‘He who speaks evil [κακολογῶν] of father or mother is to be put to death.'”
• Mark 7:10: “For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and mother’; and, ‘He who speaks evil [κακολογῶν] of father or mother, let him be put to death.'”

Classical Usage

Summary of κακολογέω (G2551)

The Greek verb κακολογέω (kakologeō) means “to speak evil of” or “to curse.” It is a powerful term in the New Testament that warns against negative speech, particularly against parents or others. Its usage underscores the importance of maintaining righteous behavior and aligns with broader ethical teachings within both ancient Greek culture and Christian doctrine.

Did You Know?

• The word κακολογέω is directly tied to the Greek word for “evil” (κακός) and “to speak” (λέγω), emphasizing its negative connotation.
• κακολογέω is one of the few Greek words that directly connects improper speech to the moral laws of both Judaism and early Christianity.
• In classical literature, κακολογέω often appears in discussions about justice and the importance of maintaining a good character through one’s words.