The Greek word kakōs, represented by G2560, is an adverb derived from the word κακός. It means to be in a state that is badly, either physically or morally. Appearing 16 times in 16 unique verses, its usage in scripture ranges from describing physical illness to moral error, translated as terms like sick, diseased, evil, amiss, and miserably.
In the Gospels, G2560 is frequently used to describe physical suffering. Crowds brought to Jesus "all that were diseased" Matthew 14:35 or "sick" Matthew 8:16. The word also functions as an intensifier for severe affliction, such as the Canaanite woman's daughter who was "grievously vexed with a devil" Matthew 15:22 or the boy who was "lunatick, and sore vexed" Matthew 17:15. Beyond physical ailments, the word describes moral failings. James warns against praying "amiss" to fulfill one's lusts James 4:3, and Paul acknowledges the scriptural prohibition against speaking "evil" of a ruler Acts 23:5. In a parable, it is used to describe the fate of wicked men who will be "miserably" destroyed Matthew 21:41.
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of G2560:
- G2556 kakós (bad, evil): As the root adjective, kakós describes the nature of evil, whereas G2560 describes the action or state of being evil or "badly." The two are used together when Jesus says, "If I have spoken evil G2560, bear witness of the evil G2556" John 18:23.
- G2395 iatrós (physician): This word appears as the direct answer to the condition described by G2560. Jesus states that those who are whole have no need of a physician, but "they that are sick G2560" do Matthew 9:12.
- G2480 ischýō (be whole, be of strength): This term is presented as the direct opposite of being physically sick G2560. In Mark 2:17, Jesus contrasts "they that are whole" with "they that are sick."
- G2323 therapeúō (heal, cure): This is the action performed in response to the state of being sick G2560. The gospels repeatedly state that Jesus healed all those who were sick (Matthew 8:16, Mark 1:34).
The theological significance of G2560 is evident in its dual application to physical and spiritual states.
- A Metaphor for Sin: Jesus uses the common experience of being physically sick G2560 to illustrate a deeper spiritual truth. He equates the need for a physician with the need for a savior, stating, "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners G268 to repentance" Mark 2:17. This directly links the physically sick with the spiritually lost.
- Defining Moral Error: The word pinpoints actions and motivations that are contrary to God's will. Asking "amiss" reveals a self-centered heart that is misaligned with divine purpose James 4:3. Speaking evil G2560 is a transgression against divine order and authority Acts 23:5.
- The Consequence of Wickedness: G2560 is used to describe the severity of divine judgment. The wicked husbandmen in the parable are not just destroyed, but "miserably" destroyed, emphasizing the dire result of their evil actions Matthew 21:41.
In summary, G2560 is a versatile adverb that encapsulates the concept of being in a bad state. It describes everything from physical disease and grievous torment to moral error and the miserable consequences of sin. Most significantly, it serves as a powerful biblical illustration of humanity's condition, highlighting our need for the divine physician, Jesus Christ, who came to heal the sick and call sinners to repentance.
TRV