Brief Overview of κράτος (Strong’s G2904: kratos)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in biblical studies is vital for delving into the original meanings and nuances conveyed in Scripture. The Greek noun κράτος (kratos) is particularly significant in the New Testament as it denotes strength, power, and dominion. Appearing first in Luke 1:51, this word enriches the interpretation of God’s mighty deeds and the overarching theme of divine sovereignty. In ancient Greek culture, κράτος was a term frequently used to describe both literal and figurative power, offering a window into how strength and authority were perceived in both sacred and secular contexts.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κράτος (kratos) [KRAH-tos]

Etymology: The word κράτος is derived from the root krā- meaning “strength” or “might.” It is related to other Greek terms that convey power, such as κρατέω (krateō, “to hold” or “to seize”) and κράτιστος (kratistos, “most excellent”). The etymology of κράτος underlines a focus on strength, power, and dominion.

Part of Speech: Noun. κράτος is a neuter noun of the third declension. It is often used in the nominative and accusative cases and can refer to physical strength, dominion, or might in both personal and political contexts.

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Defining Meanings

Strength or Might: The primary meaning of κράτος is “strength” or “might,” often describing a powerful force or influence. This can refer to physical strength or more abstract forms of power, such as the might of God or a ruler.

Dominion or Authority: κράτος also carries the connotation of “dominion” or “authority,” implying the ability to exert control or rule over others. This usage is common in contexts where the focus is on governance, divine power, or military control.

Manifested Power or Force: In certain contexts, κράτος can mean “manifested power” or “force,” emphasizing the active demonstration of strength, such as miraculous works or acts of war.

Exploring Similar Words

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δύναμις (dynamis) [DOO-nah-mees]: While also meaning “power” or “strength,” δύναμις often focuses on inherent power or ability rather than the active exercise of power implied by κράτος.

ἐξουσία (exousia) [ex-oo-SEE-ah]: This word translates as “authority” or “right” and differs from κράτος in that it emphasizes the legal or moral right to act, rather than raw or exerted power.

ἰσχύς (ischys) [IS-khoos]: Meaning “strength” or “force,” ἰσχύς often refers to physical or bodily strength and is less commonly used to describe dominion or authority.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Case, Number, Gender: κράτος is a neuter noun of the third declension. It appears in singular and plural forms and is found in various cases, including nominative, genitive, dative, and accusative.

Declension: The declension of κράτος follows the typical pattern for third-declension neuter nouns.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

The word κράτος is widely recognized in Greek lexicons as denoting strength, power, or might. In the New Testament, it often refers to the manifested power of God, as in Luke 1:51, where it describes God’s mighty arm scattering the proud. In classical Greek literature, κράτος was used to denote the physical strength of a warrior, the political power of a ruler, or the divine might of a god. Theologically, the term reflects both the inherent power of God and His active dominion over creation. This concept is essential for understanding the biblical narrative’s portrayal of divine intervention, authority, and judgment.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Luke 1:51: “He hath shewed strength (κράτος) with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.”

Ephesians 1:19-20: “And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty (κράτος) power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead.”

1 Timothy 6:16: “Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honor and power (κράτος) everlasting. Amen.”

1 Peter 4:11: “If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion (κράτος) for ever and ever. Amen.”

Jude 1:25: “To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion (κράτος) and power, both now and ever. Amen.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κράτος (kratos) is integral to understanding themes of strength, power, and authority in both biblical and classical texts. It is used in the New Testament to describe God’s mighty power and dominion, often associated with His ability to act and intervene in human history. In classical Greek literature, κράτος is equally important in discussions of political, military, and divine power. Recognizing the nuances of this term helps deepen our understanding of how authority and might are portrayed across different contexts.

Did You Know?

Did you know? The word κράτος is the root of the English word “democracy,” which literally means “rule by the people” (demos + kratos).

Did you know? In Greek mythology, Kratos was also personified as a minor deity representing strength and power, serving as an enforcer for Zeus.

Did you know? The Septuagint frequently uses κράτος to translate Hebrew words that convey divine strength, reinforcing its importance in Jewish and Christian thought.