The meaning of “πονηρός”
Understanding ponērós reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
bad, evil, grievous, harm, lewd, malicious, wicked(-ness). - hurtful, i.e. evil (properly, in effect or influence, and t...
πονηρός
bad, evil, grievous, harm, lewd, malicious, wicked(-ness). - hurtful, i.e. evil (properly, in effect or influence, and thus differing from κακός, which refers rather to essential character, as well as from σαπρός, which indicates degeneracy from original virtue) - figuratively, calamitous - also (passively) ill, i.e. diseased - but especially (morally) culpable, i.e. derelict, vicious, facinorous - neuter (singular) mischief, malice, or (plural) guilt - masculine (singular) the devil, or (plural) sinners
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 12:35 | “A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.” Word: πονηρός (ponērós) | |
| Acts 19:13 | “Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.” Word: πονηρός (ponērós) | |
| Ephesians 6:13 | “Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Word: πονηρός (ponērós) | |
| 1 Timothy 6:4 | “He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,” Word: πονηρός (ponērós) | |
| 1 John 3:12 | “Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous.” Word: πονηρός (ponērós) |