a primary inseparable particle of uncertain derivation; used only in composition as a prefix; hard, i.e. with difficulty:--+ hard, + grievous, etc.
Transliteration:dys-
Pronunciation:doos
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek particle G1418 (δυσ-) is a primary, inseparable prefix of uncertain etymological derivation. It is used exclusively in composition with other words, functioning to denote difficulty, hardship, or a negative quality. Its core meaning conveys "hard," "with difficulty," "badly," or "unfavorably." As such, it acts as a privative or pejorative intensifier, indicating that the action or state described by the root word is either challenging to achieve, inherently flawed, or characterized by adversity. It stands in direct semantic opposition to the prefix `{{G2095}}` (ευ-), which signifies "good," "well," or "easy."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As G1418 (δυσ-) is a prefix, it does not appear as a standalone word in the biblical text. Its presence is discerned through the words it forms. Examining key words derived from this prefix reveals its contextual application:
* **`{{G1420}}` (δύσκολος) and `{{G1419}}` (δυσκολία): "Difficult," "Hardship"**
* These words are most notably found in the Synoptic Gospels concerning the rich young ruler's encounter with Jesus. Jesus states, "How `{{G1420}}` (δύσκολος) it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!" [[Luke 18:24]] Similar statements appear in [[Matthew 19:23]] and [[Mark 10:23]]. The use of δύσκολος here emphasizes the immense, almost impossible, human difficulty for the wealthy to detach from their earthly security and fully trust in God. The disciples' astonished response underscores this perceived impossibility, leading Jesus to declare, "With people it is `{{G1419}}` (δυσκολία) impossible, but not with God; for all things are possible with God." [[Mark 10:27]] This highlights human limitation in contrast to divine power.
* **`{{G1426}}` (δυσφημία): "Evil Report," "Slander"**
* In [[2 Corinthians 6:8]], Paul lists the various experiences of apostleship, including being glorified and dishonored, `{{G1426}}` (δυσφημία) and good report. Here, δυσφημία refers to malicious accusations or slander directed against the apostles, demonstrating the hardships and opposition faced in ministry. The prefix dys- clearly marks the "bad" or "evil" nature of the report.
* **`{{G1417}}` (δυσεντερία): "Dysentery," "Flux"**
* This term appears in [[Acts 28:8]], describing the illness of Publius' father, whom Paul healed. The word literally means "bad bowels" or "difficult intestines," accurately describing the debilitating condition of dysentery. The prefix here points to a malfunctioning or distressed bodily state.
* **`{{G1425}}` (δυσνόητος): "Hard to Understand"**
* In [[2 Peter 3:16]], Peter refers to some things in Paul's letters as `{{G1425}}` (δυσνόητος), meaning "difficult to understand." This acknowledges the depth and complexity of certain theological truths, which can be twisted by the ignorant and unstable. The prefix indicates the intellectual challenge posed by these passages.
In each instance, the dys- prefix serves to underscore a condition of adversity, impairment, or significant challenge, whether spiritual, physical, or intellectual.
### Related Words & Concepts
The prefix G1418 (δυσ-) forms a family of words in the New Testament, all sharing the core semantic range of difficulty or negativity. Beyond those analyzed above, other notable derivatives include `{{G1421}}` (δυσκόλως), an adverb meaning "with difficulty." The conceptual opposite of dys- is eu- (`{{G2095}}`), meaning "good" or "well," which forms words like `{{G2097}}` (εὐαγγέλιον, "good news" or "gospel") and `{{G2098}}` (εὐαγγελίζω, "to preach good news"). This contrasting pair of prefixes highlights the biblical worldview that encompasses both hardship and blessing, evil and good. The concept of "difficulty" itself is pervasive in Scripture, often appearing as a test of faith, a consequence of sin, or a necessary crucible for spiritual growth.
### Theological Significance
The presence of G1418 (δυσ-) and its derivatives in the biblical text carries profound theological significance. Words like δύσκολος (difficult) in relation to the rich young ruler underscore the absolute human inability to achieve salvation through personal effort or material advantage; it is a task utterly beyond human capacity, emphasizing the necessity of divine grace and intervention. The "difficulty" is not merely a challenge but an impossibility for humanity alone.
Similarly, δυσφημία (slander) highlights the reality of persecution and opposition faced by those who proclaim the Gospel. This hardship is not accidental but often a direct result of faithfulness, aligning with Christ's warnings about the world's hatred. Yet, enduring such "evil reports" for Christ's sake is presented as a mark of true discipleship and an opportunity for God's power to be displayed in human weakness.
The δυσνόητος (hard to understand) nature of certain scriptural passages points to the depth and mystery of divine revelation, which often transcends human reason and requires spiritual discernment, humility, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. These difficulties are not flaws in revelation but rather invitations to deeper engagement and reliance on God.
In essence, the dys- prefix often points to the fallenness of the world, the limitations of humanity, and the inherent challenges of the Christian walk. However, these difficulties are not presented as insurmountable obstacles but as contexts in which God's power, grace, and wisdom are most vividly demonstrated. They serve to humble humanity and exalt the divine.
### Summary
The Greek prefix G1418 (δυσ-) is an inseparable particle indicating "difficulty," "hardship," or a "negative" quality when compounded with other words. Though not a standalone word, its presence in various New Testament terms like `{{G1420}}` (δύσκολος - difficult), `{{G1426}}` (δυσφημία - slander), `{{G1417}}` (δυσεντερία - dysentery), and `{{G1425}}` (δυσνόητος - hard to understand) consistently highlights conditions of adversity, impairment, or significant challenge. Theologically, these terms underscore human limitation, the reality of suffering and opposition in a fallen world, and the profound nature of divine truth. Ultimately, the dys- prefix serves to emphasize the areas where human effort falls short, thereby magnifying the necessity and sufficiency of God's sovereign power and grace in the face of life's inherent difficulties.
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