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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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