Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in biblical studies, as it helps clarify the meanings and nuances of the original texts. The Greek word κάκωσις (kakōsis) is particularly significant for interpreting New Testament passages and understanding ancient Greek culture. κάκωσις is often used in contexts that describe suffering, mistreatment, or oppression. Studying this word offers insight into the social and moral concepts prevalent during the New Testament period and how these ideas were conveyed in the original Greek language.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: κάκωσις, transliterated as kakōsis, pronounced [KA-ko-sis].
• Etymology: Derived from the root word κακόω (kakoō), meaning “to mistreat” or “to cause suffering.”
• Part of Speech: Noun (feminine); third declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Oppression: The state of being subject to unjust treatment or control.
• Mistreatment: The action of treating someone badly or abusively.
• Affliction: A condition of pain, suffering, or distress.

Similar Words: θλῖψις (thlipsis) [THLEEP-sis], meaning “tribulation” or “affliction.” While κάκωσις emphasizes the aspect of mistreatment and suffering caused by others, θλῖψις often denotes a broader sense of pressure or distress, both internal and external.

Further Insights: κάκωσις is a feminine noun in the third declension. It typically refers to a state or condition of suffering caused by someone else’s actions. The table below shows the full declension:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines κάκωσις as “mistreatment” or “oppression,” particularly in contexts of unjust suffering.
• Thayers: Describes it as “affliction” or “oppression,” emphasizing its usage in relation to suffering inflicted by others.
• Vines: Highlights the word’s connotations of active ill-treatment or abuse by others, especially in social or legal contexts.
• LSJ: Notes the term’s usage in classical Greek to refer to physical or mental suffering caused by harsh treatment.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines κάκωσις as “affliction” or “oppression,” commonly found in contexts that describe societal or personal mistreatment.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 7:19: “He dealt treacherously with our race and oppressed [κακώσιν] our ancestors, forcing them to expose their infants so that they would not survive.”

Classical Usage

Summary of κάκωσις (G2561)

The Greek word κάκωσις denotes a state of suffering, mistreatment, or oppression. It is a term often used in both biblical and classical texts to describe unjust treatment, whether on a societal level or an individual one. Its usage in New Testament passages highlights the social injustices of the time and provides a deeper understanding of the human experiences of suffering and resilience. The study of this word is essential for interpreting the emotional and ethical undertones of ancient Greek literature and the Bible.

Did You Know?

• The word κάκωσις is used in both legal and social contexts in ancient Greek, often referring to the consequences of unjust laws or practices.
• In the Septuagint, κάκωσις is frequently used to describe the oppression of the Israelites in Egypt.
• The term appears in early Christian writings to emphasize the importance of social justice and empathy for the oppressed.