### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dýskolos**, represented by `{{G1422}}`, means **hard** or impracticable. Derived from terms related to being fastidious or peevish about food, it carries the sense of something being difficult to the point of being unworkable. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 times** in **1 unique verses** in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G1422}}` occurs in a pivotal teaching from Jesus. After his disciples `{{G3101}}` were astonished `{{G2284}}` by his initial words about wealth, Jesus answered them again, saying, "Children, how **hard** is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!" [[Mark 10:24]]. The word here qualifies the act of entering God's kingdom, framing it as an exceedingly difficult endeavor for those who place their confidence in material possessions.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its context help clarify its meaning:
* `{{G1525}}` **eisérchomai** (to enter): This word describes the action that is made "hard." It is used frequently in the context of gaining access to the kingdom of God, which requires more than just a declaration but a true change, as seen in the statement that one cannot **enter** the kingdom without being born of the Spirit [[John 3:5]].
* `{{G932}}` **basileía** (kingdom): This is the realm that is so hard to enter. It refers to God's rule and reign, a spiritual reality that one must seek first above all else [[Matthew 6:33]]. Access to this **kingdom** is a central theme connected to Jesus' teaching.
* `{{G3982}}` **peíthō** (to convince, rely on): This verb identifies the root of the difficulty—to **rely** on or have confidence in something. In the verse, the hardship is specifically for those who **trust** in riches, a confidence that is contrasted with having confidence in God [[Philippians 3:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1422}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful application:
* **A Counter-Cultural Obstacle:** The word establishes that entry into God's kingdom `{{G932}}` is not easy, and the primary obstacle identified is a trust `{{G3982}}` in riches `{{G5536}}`. This was an astonishing `{{G2284}}` concept for the disciples to hear [[Mark 10:24]].
* **The Condition of the Heart:** The difficulty is not in wealth itself, but in the reliance upon it. The term points to a condition of the heart that is peevish and fastidious towards God's provision, instead finding its security elsewhere.
* **Impracticable on Human Terms:** By describing the entry as **hard**, Jesus implies it is impracticable through human effort or status alone. It underscores the necessity of a divine work for one to enter the kingdom, a theme echoed in teachings about being born of God [[John 3:5]].
### Summary
In summary, **dýskolos** `{{G1422}}` is a precise and impactful word. Though used just once, it delivers a crucial lesson from Jesus about the spiritual danger of trusting in wealth. It defines the profound, almost impracticable, difficulty that misplaced confidence creates for anyone seeking to enter `{{G1525}}` the kingdom of God `{{G932}}`.
TRV