irregular comparative of κακός; from an obsolete equivalent (of uncertain derivation); more evil or aggravated (physically, mentally or morally):--sorer, worse.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **cheírōn**, represented by `{{G5501}}`, is a comparative term meaning **more evil or aggravated**. As an irregular comparative, it is used to describe a state that has become physically, mentally, or morally worse. It appears **11 times** in **11 unique verses** in the Bible, often translated as "worse" or "sorer."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5501}}` is used to illustrate the principle of deterioration. It is applied to physical objects, such as when a new patch on an old garment makes the rent **worse** [[Matthew 9:16]]. It also describes a worsening physical condition, as with the woman who grew **worse** despite seeing many physicians [[Mark 5:26]]. More significantly, it describes a person's spiritual state. Jesus warns a man He has healed to sin no more, lest a **worse** thing come to him [[John 5:14]]. The final state of a person repossessed by spirits is **worse** than their first condition [[Luke 11:26]], and a believer who returns to the world's pollutions ends up in a **worse** position than before [[2 Peter 2:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which a state becomes `{{G5501}}`.
* `{{G4191}}` **ponēróteros** (more evil): This comparative term is used to describe the spirits that re-inhabit a person, making their final state **worse** than the first ([[Matthew 12:45]], [[Luke 11:26]]).
* `{{G5098}}` **timōría** (punishment): This word for a penalty is qualified by `{{G5501}}` to describe the "**sorer** punishment" awaiting those who have done despite unto the Spirit of grace [[Hebrews 10:29]].
* `{{G1922}}` **epígnōsis** (knowledge): Having full discernment or **knowledge** of Christ is the state from which a person can fall, making their end **worse** than their beginning if they become entangled again in the world's pollutions [[2 Peter 2:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5501}}` lies in its function as a stark warning against relapse and the principle of escalation.
* **The Danger of a Spiritual Void:** The parable of the unclean spirit returning with seven other spirits illustrates that deliverance without ongoing sanctification can lead to a state that is **worse** than the original bondage [[Matthew 12:45]].
* **Consequences of Apostasy:** The term underscores the severe consequences for those who abandon the faith. One who denies the faith by failing to provide for his family is considered **worse than** an infidel [[1 Timothy 5:8]]. Similarly, a "**sorer** punishment" is reserved for those who, after being sanctified, treat the covenant with contempt [[Hebrews 10:29]].
* **Escalating Error:** The word is used to describe how a problem, if handled improperly, can compound. This is seen in the warning that the "last **error**" concerning the resurrection could be **worse than** the first if Jesus's tomb was not made sure [[Matthew 27:64]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5501}}` is a crucial comparative term that signifies a decline into an aggravated or more evil condition. It is not merely a synonym for "bad" but highlights a state of deterioration. From a physical object being damaged further to a spiritual state becoming more corrupted, **cheírōn** serves as a consistent scriptural warning. It demonstrates that falling away from a position of healing, knowledge, or faith results in a condition that is often far **worse** than the one that came before.
TRV