### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kakopoiéō**, represented by `{{G2554}}`, means to **do evil** or to be a bad-doer. It appears **4 times** in **4 verses** of scripture and is defined as the act of injuring or committing sin.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2554}}` is frequently used to create a sharp contrast with the act of doing good. Jesus employs this contrast when questioning the Pharisees about the Sabbath, asking whether it **is lawful** to do good or to **do evil** on that day ([[Mark 3:4]], [[Luke 6:9]]). This highlights a moral choice between saving a **life** and destroying it. The apostle Peter also uses this word to frame the nature of suffering, stating it is **better** to **suffer** for well doing, if it is the **will** of **God**, than for **evil doing** [[1 Peter 3:17]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of doing evil:
* `{{G15}}` **agathopoiéō** (to do good): This is the direct opposite of `{{G2554}}` and appears in direct contrast in all four of its occurrences, such as in the choice between doing good or **doing evil** on the Sabbath [[Mark 3:4]].
* `{{G2556}}` **kakós** (evil): This is the root adjective from which `{{G2554}}` is derived. It is used to describe the type of action one should not **follow**, contrasting with that which is **good** [[3 John 1:11]].
* `{{G18}}` **agathós** (good): As the opposite of **evil**, this word defines the standard believers are called to imitate. He that doeth good **is** of **God**, while he that **doeth evil** hath not **seen** **God** [[3 John 1:11]].
* `{{G3958}}` **páschō** (to suffer): This verb is linked to `{{G2554}}` in the context of consequences, where it is considered **better** to **suffer** for well doing than for **evil doing** [[1 Peter 3:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2554}}` is significant in framing moral and spiritual choices.
* **Moral and Spiritual Dichotomy:** The word establishes a clear division. To do good is to be **of God**, while to **do evil** indicates a separation from Him, as he that doeth evil "hath not **seen** **God**" [[3 John 1:11]].
* **Sabbath and Lawfulness:** Jesus' use of the term challenges rigid interpretations of the law. He frames the choice not as one of religious observance but of fundamental morality: the choice to **do good** or to **do evil**, to **save** a **life** or to **destroy** it [[Luke 6:9]].
* **Redemptive Suffering:** The concept is presented in the context of suffering. It is preferable to **suffer** according to the **will** of **God** for well doing than to suffer the consequences of **evil doing** [[1 Peter 3:17]], which implies a distinction between righteous suffering and deserved punishment.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2554}}` is a term that defines actions contrary to God's nature and will. It is consistently placed in direct opposition to doing good, framing morality as a clear choice. From Jesus' teachings on the Sabbath to apostolic instruction on godly living, to **do evil** is presented as an act that signifies a separation from God and stands in contrast to the righteous path of saving life and doing good.
TRV