Brief Overview of κραταιόω (Strong’s G2901: krataioō)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is crucial in biblical studies to uncover the layered meanings and contexts within Scripture. The Greek verb κραταιόω (krataioō) is particularly significant because it is used in the New Testament to describe strengthening, particularly in a spiritual or moral sense. Found in Luke 1:80, where it describes the growth of John the Baptist, this word enriches the interpretation of New Testament passages that speak about developing spiritual resilience and inner strength. Furthermore, κραταιόω sheds light on ancient Greek culture’s emphasis on strength, both physical and moral.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: κραταιόω (krataioō) [kra-tai-OH-oh]

Etymology: The root of κραταιόω is κράτος (kratos), meaning “strength,” “might,” or “power.” The verb form κραταιόω essentially means “to make strong” or “to strengthen,” and it shares its root with related words that convey ideas of power and fortitude.

Part of Speech: Verb. κραταιόω is a regular verb and appears in various tenses in the New Testament. It can be found in both the active and passive voices, allowing for nuanced meanings depending on the context.

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Defining Meanings

To Strengthen: The primary meaning of κραταιόω is “to strengthen,” particularly in the sense of providing or receiving strength. This usage often implies an internal or moral fortification.

To Become Strong: The verb can also mean “to become strong,” indicating a process of gaining strength or power. This meaning can apply to both physical and spiritual contexts.

To Be Made Mighty: In a more passive sense, κραταιόω can mean “to be made mighty” or “to be empowered,” often implying divine action or intervention that bestows strength upon a person or group.

Exploring Similar Words

ἐνδυναμόω (endynamoō) [en-doo-nah-MO-oh]: This word also means “to strengthen” or “to empower,” but it often implies a more specific kind of empowerment, such as equipping for a particular task or battle.

στερεόω (stereoō) [ste-re-OH-oh]: Meaning “to make firm” or “to establish,” στερεόω emphasizes stability and firmness rather than the dynamic aspect of becoming strong found in κραταιόω.

ἰσχύω (ischyō) [is-KHOO-oh]: This verb means “to be strong” or “to have strength” and often refers to physical power or endurance. Unlike κραταιόω, it does not inherently imply an increase or process of becoming strong.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Tense, Voice, Mood: κραταιόω can appear in several tenses, including the present, aorist, and perfect, depending on the context. It is used in both the active and passive voices, allowing the subject to either perform or receive the action of strengthening. The verb also appears in various moods, such as indicative (stating a fact), imperative (giving a command), and subjunctive (expressing a possibility or condition).

Person and Number: The verb κραταιόω is conjugated according to the person (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and number (singular, plural) required by the sentence structure.

Conjugation Table (Present Indicative Active):

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The word κραταιόω is consistently described across lexicons as a verb meaning “to strengthen” or “to make strong.” In the New Testament, its usage is often metaphorical, referring to the strengthening of the spirit or faith, as seen in Luke 1:80, where John the Baptist “grew and became strong in spirit.” In classical Greek literature, κραταιόω can refer to both physical strengthening and the bolstering of one’s resolve or moral character. Theologically, the verb underscores God’s role in empowering His followers, particularly in times of need or spiritual growth. It captures the dynamic process of becoming spiritually or morally fortified, whether through personal effort or divine intervention.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

Luke 1:80: “And the child grew, and waxed strong (κραταιόω) in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.”

Ephesians 3:16: “That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened (κραταιόω) with might by his Spirit in the inner man.”

Hebrews 11:34: “Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong (κραταιόω), waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κραταιόω (krataioō) is vital for understanding biblical teachings about spiritual strength and growth. It denotes a process of becoming strong, whether physically, spiritually, or morally, and is often used to describe divine empowerment. Its application in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature highlights its significance in contexts where fortitude, both internal and external, is essential. This word captures the essence of dynamic spiritual growth and divine support, enriching the understanding of how believers are called to develop their faith and resilience.

Did You Know?

Did you know? κραταιόω is frequently used in the Septuagint to describe God strengthening His people, showing continuity in biblical themes of divine support across both Testaments.

Did you know? The root κράτος not only means “strength” but is also the basis for the English word “democracy,” implying “people power” or “rule by the strong.”

Did you know? In Greek mythology, κραταιόω was often used to describe the fortifying of cities and heroes, illustrating its broad applicability in ancient literature.