### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kakopathéō**, represented by `{{G2553}}`, defines the act of undergoing hardship. It appears **5 times** across **4 unique verses** in scripture, carrying meanings such as to **be afflicted**, **endure afflictions (hardness)**, or to **suffer trouble**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the Bible, `{{G2553}}` is used to describe both general and specific forms of suffering. In a general sense, it addresses the common human experience of hardship, asking, "Is any among you **afflicted**?" and prescribing prayer as the response [[James 5:13]]. In a more focused context, Paul uses the term to describe his own trials, stating that he **suffers trouble** as if he were an "evil doer" and is confined in bonds [[2 Timothy 2:9]]. He also exhorts Timothy to **endure hardness** like a good soldier of Christ [[2 Timothy 2:3]] and to **endure afflictions** as an integral part of his ministry [[2 Timothy 4:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the context and nature of this hardship:
* `{{G4336}}` **proseúchomai** (to pray to God): This is the commanded action for one who is **afflicted** `{{G2553}}`, directly linking personal hardship with a response of worship and supplication [[James 5:13]].
* `{{G2557}}` **kakoûrgos** (evil-doer): This word describes how Paul was viewed during his suffering. He **suffers trouble** `{{G2553}}` "as an **evil doer**," highlighting that the hardship was a result of being perceived as a criminal for his faith [[2 Timothy 2:9]].
* `{{G1199}}` **desmón** (band, bond, chain): This specifies the type of hardship Paul endured. His suffering `{{G2553}}` escalated to the point of physical imprisonment in **bonds** [[2 Timothy 2:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2553}}` is centered on the Christian's response to and perspective on suffering.
* **An Expectation of Ministry:** For those in ministry, the call to **endure hardness** `{{G2553}}` is presented not as a possibility but as a duty, akin to that of a soldier [[2 Timothy 2:3]] and a core function of an evangelist's work [[2 Timothy 4:5]].
* **A Catalyst for Prayer:** Hardship is not meant to be a point of despair but a prompt for divine communion. When a believer is **afflicted** `{{G2553}}`, the immediate spiritual reflex should be to **pray** [[James 5:13]].
* **Suffering with Purpose:** Paul's experience demonstrates that personal suffering for the gospel does not hinder its progress. Though he **suffers trouble** `{{G2553}}` and is in bonds, he declares that "the word of God is not bound" [[2 Timothy 2:9]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2553}}` **kakopathéō** encompasses the reality of suffering within the Christian life. It ranges from the general afflictions that should drive believers to prayer, to the specific, purposeful hardship that is to be expected and endured in the service of Jesus Christ. The term reinforces that personal suffering, even unjust imprisonment, cannot restrain the power and reach of the gospel.
TRV