Introduction

Understanding the Greek word κακός (kakos) is crucial for Biblical studies, as it frequently appears in New Testament texts. This word, often translated as “bad,” “evil,” or “wicked,” plays a significant role in discussions about morality, human behavior, and ethical standards within both Biblical and ancient Greek contexts. Grasping its various meanings and uses can shed light on New Testament teachings and help us understand the ethical constructs of ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: κακός, transliterated as kakos, pronounced [ka-KOS].
• Etymology: Derived from Proto-Indo-European roots, indicating something of poor quality, morally objectionable, or harmful.
• Part of Speech: Adjective; describes something as bad, evil, or morally wrong. Declension varies by gender, number, and case.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Bad: Describing something of low quality or unsatisfactory nature.
• Evil: Referring to morally wrong, wicked, or malevolent actions or intentions.
• Wicked: Characterizing someone or something as morally corrupt or depraved.
• Worthless: Indicating lack of value or worth, often used in a metaphorical sense.

Similar Words: πονηρός (ponēros) [po-nay-ROS], which also means “evil” or “wicked,” but with an emphasis on active malice or harmful intent. While κακός can broadly refer to something being “bad” or “of poor quality,” πονηρός carries a stronger connotation of deliberate wickedness.

Further Insights: κακός is an adjective and follows the declension patterns typical of Greek adjectives. Here is the declension of κακός in the masculine form:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines κακός broadly as “bad” or “evil,” applicable in both moral and physical contexts. It is often contrasted with the good (ἀγαθός, agathos).
• Thayers: Focuses on κακός as an ethical term referring to someone or something that is morally reprehensible.
• Vines: Notes that κακός can describe a wide range of negative qualities, from physical harm to ethical misconduct.
• LSJ: Lists various uses in classical texts, from describing poor quality to morally corrupt individuals.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Identifies κακός as “bad,” with references to both evil actions and conditions in a variety of New Testament contexts.

Related Scripture References

• Romans 12:17: “Repay no one evil [κακός] for evil [κακός]. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men.”
• 1 Peter 3:9: “Not returning evil [κακός] for evil [κακός] or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.”
• Matthew 12:35: “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil [κακός] man out of the evil [κακός] treasure brings forth evil things.”

Classical Usage

Summary of κακός (G2556)

The Greek adjective κακός is essential for understanding ethical and moral discourses within the New Testament and ancient Greek literature. It encompasses a range of meanings, from describing something as “bad” or “of poor quality” to referring to “evil” or “wicked” actions. Its usage highlights moral contrasts and ethical teachings in scripture, providing a clear dichotomy between good and evil. Understanding κακός aids in grasping the broader moral framework of both Biblical and classical texts.

Did You Know?

• κακός is one of the most commonly used adjectives to describe negative attributes in both Biblical and secular Greek texts.
• The word can describe both actions (evil deeds) and qualities (bad character).
• κακός is often used in contrast to ἀγαθός (agathos), which means “good” or “noble,” setting up ethical dichotomies.