### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kakouchéō**, represented by `{{G2558}}`, is defined as **to maltreat**. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used to describe states of being tormented or suffering adversity as a result of harsh treatment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2558}}` describes severe mistreatment and hardship. It appears in a list of intense persecutions faced by the faithful, who were **tormented** alongside being destitute and afflicted [[Hebrews 11:37]]. The word is also used to encourage empathy among believers, urging them to remember those who **suffer adversity** as if they were experiencing it themselves in their own body [[Hebrews 13:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of being maltreated:
* `{{G2346}}` **thlíbō** (to crowd (literally or figuratively):--afflict, narrow, throng, suffer tribulation, trouble): This word appears directly alongside `{{G2558}}` to describe those who are **afflicted** and tormented as part of their suffering for their faith [[Hebrews 11:37]].
* `{{G1198}}` **désmios** (from δεσμόν; a captive (as bound):--in bonds, prisoner): This term is used in parallel with `{{G2558}}`, calling believers to remember both those who are prisoners and those who suffer adversity [[Hebrews 13:3]].
* `{{G3403}}` **mimnḗskō** (a prolonged form of μνάομαι (from which some of the tenses are borrowed); to remind, i.e. (middle voice) to recall to mind:--be mindful, remember): This verb initiates the command to show solidarity with those who **suffer adversity** [[Hebrews 13:3]], emphasizing the active duty of believers to care for the persecuted.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2558}}` is centered on the Christian response to persecution and hardship.
* **Perseverance in Suffering:** The word is used to describe the **torment** endured by the faithful, contextualizing it not as a random misfortune but as part of the journey of faith. It highlights the severe cost of steadfastness [[Hebrews 11:37]].
* **Empathy and Corporate Unity:** The command to remember those who **suffer adversity** establishes a principle of corporate responsibility. Believers are instructed to identify with the maltreated as if they were sharing the same physical experience, reinforcing the concept of the church as a single body [[Hebrews 13:3]].
* **Active Remembrance:** The linkage with the command to **remember** `{{G3403}}` elevates this concept beyond mere sympathy. It implies a duty to act on behalf of the suffering, making their plight a central concern for the community of faith [[Hebrews 13:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2558}}` is a potent term that, despite its infrequent use, captures a significant aspect of the biblical understanding of suffering. It conveys not just hardship, but severe **maltreatment** and **torment**. Its usage in Scripture serves a dual purpose: to honor the endurance of those persecuted for their faith [[Hebrews 11:37]] and to command active, empathetic solidarity from fellow believers who are called to remember those who **suffer adversity** [[Hebrews 13:3]].
TRV