### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kákōsis**, represented by `{{G2561}}`, defines **maltreatment** or **affliction**. Derived from κακόω, it is a specific term that appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting a particular moment of severe hardship.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G2561}}` occurs in [[Acts 7:34]], during Stephen's recounting of Israel's history. God states, "I have seen, I have seen the **affliction** of my people which is in Egypt." The word is used here to describe the intense oppression and suffering the Israelites endured. In this context, the **affliction** is directly linked to their groaning, underscoring the depth of their pain and serving as the reason for God's subsequent act of deliverance.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse provide a fuller picture of the situation:
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (to see): This word, meaning "properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by implication... to know," is repeated for emphasis in [[Acts 7:34]]. It shows that God did not just casually observe but was fully aware of the people's suffering.
* `{{G1722}}` **en** (in): This preposition, "denoting (fixed) position (in place, time or state)," pinpoints the location of the affliction. It firmly places the suffering of the people "in Egypt," giving it a specific historical and geographical setting.
* `{{G4726}}` **stenagmós** (groaning): Defined as "a sigh," this word captures the audible response to the **affliction**. God not only saw their hardship but also heard their pained cry for help [[Acts 7:34]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2561}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use.
* **Divine Awareness:** The term powerfully communicates that God sees and is acutely aware of the **maltreatment** of His people. The suffering is not hidden from Him [[Acts 7:34]].
* **Catalyst for Deliverance:** The **affliction** described by `{{G2561}}` is presented as the direct motivation for God's intervention. It is because He sees this hardship that He promises to "come down to deliver them" [[Acts 7:34]].
* **The Link between Pain and Prayer:** By being paired with `groaning` `{{G4726}}`, **kákōsis** illustrates that physical suffering and oppression produce a response that ascends to God and moves Him to act.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2561}}` is a precise term for **affliction** and **maltreatment**. Though used only once, its context in [[Acts 7:34]] is foundational, illustrating that the suffering of God's people is seen, heard, and becomes the very basis for His powerful acts of redemption and deliverance. It encapsulates a moment of deep hardship that directly precedes a display of divine power.
TRV