Introduction

Understanding the Greek word κακόω (kakóō) is essential for biblical studies as it provides a deeper insight into the concept of suffering, mistreatment, and harm in both spiritual and secular contexts. The term frequently appears in the New Testament, particularly in contexts describing oppression, suffering, or evil actions against others. The significance of κακόω extends beyond the biblical narrative to understanding the values and challenges of ancient Greek society and thought.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: κακόω, transliterated as kakóō, pronounced [ka-KO-oh].
• Etymology: Derived from the Greek root κακός (kakos), meaning “bad” or “evil.”
• Part of Speech: Verb; this word follows regular Greek verb conjugation patterns.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• To harm: Refers to causing physical or emotional injury or damage.
• To mistreat: Implies unjust or harsh treatment, often involving cruelty.
• To afflict: Conveys the idea of imposing suffering or distress upon someone.

Similar Words: βλάπτω (bláptō) [BLAHP-toh], meaning “to injure” or “to harm.” While κακόω has a broad meaning of causing harm or evil, βλάπτω specifically refers to causing damage or injury, often in a physical sense.

Further Insights: κακόω is a regular verb in Greek and is used in different contexts to describe negative actions or experiences. Below is a table showing its conjugation in the present tense:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines κακόω as “to harm” or “to mistreat,” often used in contexts where harm is inflicted by enemies or adversaries.
• Thayers: Describes it as “to treat evilly” or “to afflict,” particularly in reference to suffering and persecution in the New Testament.
• Vines: Highlights the term’s usage in describing acts of aggression or oppression, emphasizing the malicious intent behind such actions.
• LSJ: Offers a broader interpretation, including meanings like “to maltreat” or “to injure,” used in various secular and sacred texts to convey a range of negative actions.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Focuses on the word’s use in depicting suffering or affliction, especially in spiritual contexts.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 7:6: “And God spoke to this effect, that his descendants would be strangers in a foreign land, and that they would be enslaved and mistreated [κακώσουσιν] for four hundred years.”
• Exodus 1:11 (Septuagint): “Therefore, they set taskmasters over them to afflict [κακῶσαι] them with burdens.”

Classical Usage

Summary of κακόω (G2559)

The Greek verb κακόω is a significant term for understanding themes of suffering, mistreatment, and persecution in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature. It frequently appears in contexts where individuals or groups endure hardship or harm, providing a lens through which to view human suffering and endurance. Its various meanings and applications make it a valuable term for those studying Greek language and biblical texts.

Did You Know?

• The word κακόω has its roots in the concept of “evil” or “bad,” often used in Greek literature to describe malicious or harmful actions.
• κακόω is frequently used in contexts of divine or human retribution, showing the consequences of evil actions.
• In ancient Greek culture, κακόω was also applied to describe the fate of prisoners of war, emphasizing the harsh realities of ancient conflicts.