Brief Overview of ἀδύνατος (Strong’s G102: adynatos)

ἀδύνατος (adynatos) – G102:
The Greek adjective “ἀδύνατος” means “powerless” or “unable.” It is used to describe someone or something that lacks the necessary strength or ability to perform an action or achieve a goal. This term often conveys a sense of incapacity, either physically or metaphorically.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

ἀδύνατος (adynatos):

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1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Meaning: Strong’s Concordance (G102) defines “ἀδύνατος” as “powerless” or “unable.” It refers to a state of lacking strength or capability, describing situations or entities that are incapable of performing an action or fulfilling a requirement.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Meaning: Thayer’s Lexicon elaborates that “ἀδύνατος” means “powerless” or “incapable.” It describes a lack of strength or ability to do something. The lexicon also highlights its use in contexts where physical, moral, or spiritual inability is emphasized.

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:

• Meaning: Vine’s Dictionary explains that “ἀδύνατος” denotes a state of being “unable” or “powerless.” It is used to express situations where there is an inability to perform an action due to a lack of inherent power or capability.

1. BDAG Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: BDAG provides a detailed definition of “ἀδύνατος,” describing it as “unable to do something, lacking strength or power.” It underscores its application in various contexts, including physical, moral, and spiritual incapacity. BDAG highlights the term’s use in conveying the idea of being unable to achieve a particular outcome due to limitations.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: LSJ describes “ἀδύνατος” as “incapable, powerless, unable.” It focuses on the term’s use to indicate a lack of power or strength, whether in physical terms or in terms of effectiveness and ability.

Usage in the New Testament:

• Example: In Matthew 17:20, “ἀδύνατος” is used to describe the disciples’ lack of ability to cast out a demon due to insufficient faith. In Romans 8:3, it refers to the law’s incapacity to bring about righteousness due to human weakness.

Summary:
The Greek adjective “ἀδύνατος” (G102) translates to “powerless” or “unable.” According to Strong’s Concordance, Thayer’s Lexicon, Vine’s Dictionary, BDAG, and LSJ, it describes a state of lacking strength or capability. This term is applied in the New Testament to denote various forms of incapacity, whether physical, moral, or spiritual. It emphasizes situations or entities that are unable to achieve a specific outcome or perform a particular action due to inherent limitations.