Introduction

Understanding Greek words like ἰσχύς (ischys) is essential for delving into the nuances of Biblical texts. This term, translated as “strength” or “might,” appears in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature, offering insight into how ancient cultures viewed power, resilience, and divine intervention. Studying ἰσχύς helps readers better grasp the theological and cultural context of strength as expressed in Scripture and ancient writings.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἰσχύς, transliterated as ischys [is-KHOOS].
• Etymology: Derived from the root verb ἴσχω (ischō), meaning “to hold” or “to restrain,” emphasizing the idea of power held or restrained.
• Part of Speech: Noun, feminine (3rd declension).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Physical strength or power.
• Might or force, often in a military context.
• Inner strength or moral vigor.

Similar Words: δύναμις (dynamis) [DOO-nah-mis], meaning “power” or “ability,” often denotes potential or inherent power, while ἰσχύς emphasizes active or demonstrated strength.

Further Insights: ἰσχύς is a third-declension feminine noun, primarily used to express physical or moral strength. It follows a specific declension pattern, which is crucial for understanding its grammatical variations in Biblical texts:

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἰσχύς as “strength, might, or power,” particularly when describing God’s might or the human capacity for endurance.
• Thayers: Highlights its use to denote both physical and moral strength, emphasizing the quality of being powerful or formidable.
• Vines: Focuses on its Biblical usage to describe the might and power of God or a believer’s spiritual strength.
• LSJ: Lists its classical meanings, including “strength” in contexts such as military might, personal vigor, or even economic power.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Emphasizes the importance of ἰσχύς in conveying the strength of God, people, or armies, particularly in the Old Testament and Septuagint contexts.

Related Scripture References

• Mark 12:30: “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength [ἰσχύς].”
• Ephesians 1:19: “And what is the surpassing greatness of His power toward us who believe. These are in accordance with the working of the strength [ἰσχύς] of His might.”
• 1 Peter 4:11: “Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength [ἰσχύς] which God supplies.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἰσχύς (G2479)

The Greek word ἰσχύς (ischys) carries a rich meaning that spans physical, moral, and spiritual strength. Its usage in the New Testament often pertains to the strength given by God or the power demonstrated by individuals in their faith. This term also appears extensively in classical literature, describing both literal and metaphorical strength, giving us a multifaceted view of its applications in ancient Greek culture.

Did You Know?

• Did you know that ἰσχύς is one of several Greek words used in the New Testament to describe God’s strength and power, alongside words like δύναμις (dynamis) and κράτος (kratos)?
• Did you know that in ancient Greece, ἰσχύς was often used to describe the might of warriors and armies, highlighting its importance in military contexts?
• Did you know that ἰσχύς is sometimes used in the Septuagint to describe the enduring strength of God, particularly in the Psalms, where it often signifies divine protection?

This comprehensive overview provides a deeper understanding of the word ἰσχύς, offering insight into its theological, literary, and cultural significance.