Brief Overview of κυριότης (Strong’s G2963: kyriotēs)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies helps to uncover the rich, layered meanings of the text, providing insights that can be lost in translation. The Greek word κυριότης (kyriotēs) is particularly significant in New Testament studies as it conveys concepts of power, dominion, and authority. This term is used in contexts that discuss the hierarchy of spiritual beings and the sovereignty of God. In ancient Greek culture, words related to dominion and power had social, political, and religious implications. Thus, understanding κυριότης is crucial for interpreting passages that describe spiritual hierarchies and the scope of divine rule.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: κυριότης (kyriotēs) [kee-ree-O-tace]

Etymology: The word κυριότης is derived from the root κύριος (kyrios), meaning “lord” or “master.” The suffix -της (-tēs) is a common Greek ending used to form abstract nouns indicating quality, state, or condition. Thus, κυριότης embodies the idea of “lordship” or “dominion,” emphasizing a state or condition of having authority.

Part of Speech: Noun. κυριότης is a feminine noun in Greek. It follows the third declension pattern, which impacts how it changes form depending on its grammatical case (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative) and number (singular, plural).

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Defining Meanings

Meaning 1: Dominion or Lordship
The primary meaning of κυριότης is “dominion” or “lordship.” It denotes the power or authority one has over a particular domain, whether it be spiritual or temporal. In biblical contexts, it often refers to spiritual powers and their hierarchical status.

Meaning 2: Authority or Ruling Power
Another meaning of κυριότης focuses on “authority” or “ruling power.” This nuance is particularly relevant in the New Testament, where it is used to describe both human and divine authority structures, including those of spiritual beings or celestial powers.

Exploring Similar Words

ἐξουσία (exousia) [ex-ou-SEE-ah]: While also meaning “authority,” this term differs from κυριότης as it emphasizes the right or permission to exercise power rather than the inherent state of dominion or control.

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δύναμις (dynamis) [DY-na-mis]: Meaning “power” or “might,” this word focuses more on the capability or force behind an action rather than the ruling status implied by κυριότης.

κράτος (kratos) [KRA-tos]: Referring to “strength” or “might,” κράτος often implies a physical or coercive force used to establish or maintain control, contrasting with the authoritative or positional sense of κυριότης.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns/Adjectives:

• Case, Number, Gender: κυριότης is a feminine noun that can appear in various cases (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative) and numbers (singular, plural) depending on its role in a sentence.
• Declension: κυριότης follows the third declension pattern. Here is a declension table for the word in the singular form:

For more details on Greek nouns, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The term κυριότης appears in contexts involving the hierarchy of spiritual and celestial powers, as well as in discussions of Christ’s supremacy over all forms of authority. In the New Testament, it highlights the extent of Christ’s lordship, asserting that all dominions and powers are under His rule. In classical Greek literature, the term conveys similar themes of sovereignty and control, though often within more secular contexts, such as political or military authority. These varied uses underscore its depth and versatility as a concept for expressing authority and governance in both earthly and heavenly realms.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Ephesians 1:21: “Far above all rule and authority and power and dominion [κυριότης], and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.”
Colossians 1:16: “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions [κυριότης] or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.”
Jude 1:8: “Yet in like manner these people also, relying on their dreams, defile the flesh, reject authority, and blaspheme the glorious ones [κυριότης].”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κυριότης (kyriotēs) encapsulates the concept of dominion and authority, both in earthly and spiritual contexts. In the New Testament, it is particularly used to describe the vast scope of Christ’s rule and the hierarchy of spiritual beings. Its usage across classical Greek literature further reinforces its depth as a term for power and governance, making it an essential word for understanding both ancient and biblical discussions on authority.

Did You Know?

• Did you know? The term κυριότης is part of the New Testament vocabulary that emphasizes Christ’s supremacy over all spiritual authorities.
• Did you know? The usage of κυριότης in Jude 1:8 highlights the rejection of rightful authority, showing how early Christians viewed spiritual rebellion.
• Did you know? In the Septuagint, κυριότης often translates Hebrew terms associated with kingship and divine authority, bridging Jewish and Hellenistic understandings of dominion.