### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word δύσκολος (dýskolos), Strong's `{{G1422}}`, is a compound term derived from the prefix δυσ- (dys-), signifying difficulty, ill, or bad, and a root related to food or eating, specifically κολον (kolon), implying fastidiousness or peevishness concerning food. Its initial semantic range thus points to someone "hard to please" or "fastidious," particularly in matters of eating. However, its usage in the New Testament has evolved beyond this literal sense to denote something "difficult," "impracticable," or "hard to accomplish." It describes a situation or task that presents significant obstacles, rendering it challenging or arduous for human endeavor. The core meaning, therefore, settles on the concept of inherent difficulty or a formidable obstacle.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term δύσκολος (dýskolos) appears exclusively in the Synoptic Gospels, specifically in the context of Jesus' teaching regarding wealth and entry into the Kingdom of God. It is found in [[Matthew 19:23]], [[Mark 10:23]], and [[Luke 18:24]]. In these parallel passages, Jesus states, "How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!" The "hardness" described here is not an impossibility, but an immense difficulty.
The context is the rich young ruler's encounter with Jesus, where he is unwilling to part with his extensive possessions to follow Christ. Jesus' subsequent declaration about the difficulty for the wealthy is met with astonishment by the disciples. The "hardness" (δύσκολος) arises from the inherent temptation for the rich to trust in their material security rather than in God, to prioritize earthly treasures over heavenly ones, and to find their identity and security in their possessions rather than in the divine. This difficulty is immediately followed by the well-known hyperbole of a camel passing through the eye of a needle, further emphasizing the human impossibility of such an act, which Jesus then contrasts with God's omnipotence: "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" ([[Matthew 19:26]]). Thus, δύσκολος highlights a human-centric difficulty that only divine intervention can overcome.
### Related Words & Concepts
The concept of "hardness" or "difficulty" expressed by δύσκολος (dýskolos) resonates with several related biblical terms and theological concepts. While δύσκολος specifically denotes the arduous nature of a task, other words describe the state or consequences of such difficulty. For instance, the idea of "impossible" (ἀδύνατος, adynatos, `{{G102}}`, or often implied by the context of δύσκολος itself) is closely linked, particularly when human effort is insufficient. The contrasting concept of "easy" (εὐκοπώτερος, eukopōteros, `{{G2109}}`, "easier") is used in parallel passages, such as when Jesus states it is "easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God."
The "hardness" for the rich is rooted in their potential for spiritual blindness (τυφλός, typhlos, `{{G5185}}`) and the deceitfulness of riches (ἀπάτη, apatē, `{{G588}}`). It points to the spiritual obstacles (σκάνδαλον, skandalon, `{{G4625}}`, "stumbling block") that wealth can create, hindering one's full surrender to God. The solution to this "hardness" lies in concepts like humility (ταπεινοφροσύνη, tapeinophrosynē, `{{G5012}}`), detachment from worldly possessions (ἀποτάσσομαι, apotassomai, `{{G657}}`, "to renounce"), and absolute reliance on God's grace and power (δύναμις, dynamis, `{{G1411}}`).
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of δύσκολος (dýskolos) in Jesus' teaching is profound. It underscores the radical nature of discipleship and the inherent conflict between allegiance to material wealth and allegiance to God's Kingdom. The "hardness" is not a condemnation of wealth itself, but a stark warning about the spiritual dangers it poses. It reveals the human tendency to trust in self-sufficiency and earthly security, which stands in direct opposition to the kingdom's call for complete dependence on God.
This word highlights a crucial theological truth: human effort, even with abundant resources, is insufficient for salvation or entry into God's Kingdom. The "hardness" emphasizes the necessity of divine grace and intervention. What is "hard" or even "impossible" for humans is entirely possible for God. This serves as a powerful reminder that salvation is a gift of God, not an achievement of man, regardless of his status or possessions. It challenges believers to re-evaluate their priorities, fostering a spirit of humility and absolute trust in God's provision and power, rather than in fleeting earthly riches.
### Summary
The Greek word δύσκολος (dýskolos, `{{G1422}}`) signifies something "difficult," "hard to accomplish," or "impracticable." Its singular use in the New Testament, across [[Matthew 19:23]], [[Mark 10:23]], and [[Luke 18:24]], consistently describes the profound challenge for those with wealth to enter the Kingdom of God. This "hardness" is rooted in the spiritual pitfalls of material possessions, which can foster self-reliance and divert trust away from God. The theological import of δύσκολος lies in its emphasis on human limitation and the absolute necessity of divine grace. What is humanly "hard" or "impossible" becomes divinely possible, underscoring that entry into God's Kingdom is a work of God's power and not human merit or earthly means.
TRV