ἀδίκως (adikōs)
adikōs
unjustly
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adverb adikōs means to act or suffer in a way that is unjust or undeserved. Derived from the adjective for "unjust," it describes situations where fairness has been violated, often highlighting a mismatch between what someone deserves and what they actually receive. In Scripture, it appears only once, in 1 Peter 2:19.
Here, Peter uses the word to describe enduring suffering without having done anything wrong. The context emphasizes that such unjust treatment is pleasing to God when borne patiently. This usage connects the concept of unfairness with the spiritual discipline of patience, suggesting that bearing undeserved hardship is a significant aspect of Christian faithfulness.
The term carries theological weight by validating the experience of those who suffer unfairly. It does not excuse the perpetrator but elevates the response of the victim, framing patient endurance as a form of worship. This single occurrence anchors the word in the broader biblical theme of finding meaning in unjust suffering through trust in God.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Life rarely feels fair. We often work hard, act with integrity, and still face criticism or hardship that seems entirely undeserved. The Greek word adikōs captures this specific sting of injustice — suffering when you have done nothing wrong. It is a heavy burden to carry, yet Scripture acknowledges it honestly rather than dismissing your pain.
In 1 Peter 2:19, the apostle notes that enduring such unfair treatment is commendable before God. This does not mean the injustice was right or that you should accept abuse passively. Instead, it highlights a profound spiritual strength: choosing to remain faithful and kind even when the world treats you poorly. Your patience in these moments is seen by God as an act of worship.
If you are facing unfairness today, know that your suffering is not invisible. You do not have to repay evil with evil. There is peace in releasing the need for revenge and trusting God with the outcome. May you find comfort in knowing that your integrity matters deeply to Him, even when others fail to recognize it.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- unjustly.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀδίκως.1×