### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]]).
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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