κακοπαθέω (kakopatheō)
kakopatheō
to endure
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb kakopatheō describes the act of suffering through evils or enduring affliction. It combines roots meaning "evil" and "suffering," pointing to a state of bearing hardship rather than merely feeling pain. In the New Testament, this word appears only three times, giving it a concentrated weight in its specific contexts.
Its usage highlights the reality of persecution and trial. Paul uses it when describing his own imprisonment, noting that he suffers like a criminal yet does not suffer shame for the Gospel (2 Timothy 2:9). James employs it to encourage believers in difficult times, advising them to endure patiently when they face various troubles (James 5:13).
This term captures the physical and spiritual weight of opposition. Unlike words that might imply passive resignation, kakopatheō suggests an active endurance through adverse circumstances. It reflects a faith that persists despite external pressure, acknowledging suffering as part of the Christian experience without minimizing its cost.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word kakopatheō describes a specific kind of endurance. It is not passive resignation, but an active bearing of hardship for the sake of truth. Paul used it to describe his imprisonment, noting that while he was chained like a criminal, God’s word remained free. This reminds us that our physical circumstances do not limit the power or reach of the Gospel.
When you face trials, this term invites you to stand firm. It acknowledges the weight of suffering without minimizing its reality. You are not alone in carrying this burden. The early Christians understood that enduring hardship for faith is a shared experience, connecting us to those who came before and those walking the same path today.
James also uses this concept when he asks if anyone is suffering. He does not offer a quick fix, but rather points to prayer and praise. This suggests that endurance is rooted in relationship with God. It is a steady hope that persists even when circumstances are difficult, trusting in God’s presence amidst the struggle.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- do endure afflictions,1×
- Is suffering hardships1×
- I suffer hardship1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κακοπάθησον,1×
- κακοπαθῶ1×
- Κακοπαθεῖ1×
Key Verses
-
II Timothy 2:9
in which I suffer hardship to the point of chains as a criminal. But God’s word isn’t chained.
Paul uses this word to contrast his physical chains with the unchained nature of God's word, showing that Gospel truth transcends imprisonment.
-
James 5:13
Is any among you suffering? Let him pray. Is any cheerful? Let him sing praises.
James links suffering directly to prayer and praise, framing endurance as an active spiritual practice rather than silent stoicism.
-
II Timothy 4:5
But you be sober in all things, suffer hardship, do the work of an evangelist, and fulfill your ministry.
Paul commands Timothy to endure hardship as part of fulfilling his evangelistic ministry, linking suffering with faithful service.