κίνδυνος

danger, peril, risk

Definition

κίνδυνος refers to a state of imminent danger, peril, or serious risk. In the New Testament, it consistently denotes life-threatening hazards, particularly those encountered during travel or ministry. In Romans 8:35, Paul lists 'danger' (κίνδυνος) among the tribulations that cannot separate believers from Christ's love, framing it as an external threat. In 2 Corinthians 11:26, he provides a vivid catalog of specific perils he faced, including dangers from rivers, robbers, and false brothers, illustrating the word's concrete, physical sense of hazardous circumstances.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively by the Apostle Paul in his epistles to the Romans and 2 Corinthians. In both occurrences, it describes extreme physical dangers and life-threatening situations encountered in the course of his apostolic mission. The usage is always plural (κίνδυνοι), emphasizing the repeated and varied nature of these perils, as seen in the extensive list in 2 Corinthians 11:26.

Etymology

The origin of κίνδυνος is uncertain, but it is a native Greek word. It appears in classical Greek literature, such as the works of Thucydides, with the same core meaning of 'danger' or 'risk,' particularly in martial or exploratory contexts. Its meaning remained stable into the Koine Greek of the New Testament.

Semantic Range

κίνδυνος is theologically significant as it highlights the cost of discipleship and apostolic ministry. Paul's use demonstrates that following Christ does not exempt believers from physical peril but assures them of God's sustaining love through it (Romans 8:35-39). Understanding this term enriches reading by emphasizing the very real, life-threatening opposition faced by the early church, framing their faithfulness as courageous testimony amidst tangible danger.

In the first-century Roman world, travel was notoriously hazardous due to bandits, poor roads, unpredictable weather, and political instability. Paul's list in 2 Corinthians 11:26 reflects these common cultural realities for travelers, merchants, and especially itinerant preachers who lacked the protection of official delegations. The dangers were not abstract but immediate and physical.

θλῖψις (thlipsis, G2347) — emphasizes 'pressure' or 'tribulation,' often with a broader sense of affliction. φόβος (phobos, G5401) — focuses on the emotion of 'fear' or 'terror' caused by danger, rather than the dangerous circumstance itself.

Word Details

Scripture References