κακουχέω

I treat evilly

Definition

The verb κακουχέω means to treat someone harshly, oppressively, or with cruelty. It conveys the idea of inflicting suffering, torment, or severe mistreatment upon another person. In the New Testament, it is used specifically to describe the physical abuse and persecution endured by faithful individuals, as seen in the description of martyrs who were 'tormented' (Hebrews 11:37). It also appears in an exhortation to remember those who are being 'mistreated' as if sharing in their suffering (Hebrews 13:3).

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, both times in the Book of Hebrews. It describes the severe physical suffering inflicted upon God's people due to their faith. In Hebrews 11:37, it summarizes the brutal experiences of Old Testament martyrs. In Hebrews 13:3, it is used in a present-tense, imperative context, urging believers to identify with and remember those currently undergoing such abuse for their faith.

Etymology

Derived from the adjective κακός (kakos, G2556) meaning 'bad' or 'evil' and the verb ἔχω (echō, G2192) meaning 'to have' or 'to hold.' The compound literally means 'to have or treat evilly.' It belongs to a word family centered on κακός, which includes terms for evil, malice, and trouble, emphasizing the infliction of harm.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it highlights the reality of suffering for righteousness within the biblical narrative. It connects the persecution of Old Testament saints (Hebrews 11) with the ongoing experience of the New Testament church (Hebrews 13:3), framing suffering as a shared identity marker for God's people. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by emphasizing the call to active solidarity with those persecuted for their faith, reflecting Christ's own suffering.

In the 1st-century Greco-Roman world, 'mistreatment' (κακουχέω) could encompass a range of brutal, state-sanctioned punishments, including imprisonment, torture, and public execution, often for those refusing to conform to societal or imperial religious norms. The term's use in Hebrews would resonate with an audience familiar with such realities, either through witness or personal threat.

θλίβω (thlibō, G2346) — to press, oppress, or afflict, often with a focus on pressure or distress rather than direct physical torment. παιδεύω (paideuō, G3811) — to discipline or correct, which can involve chastisement but often for a formative purpose, not merely cruel treatment.

Word Details

Scripture References