δυνατός

powerful, able, possible

Definition

The adjective δυνατός describes something or someone possessing inherent power, ability, or capacity. When applied to persons, it means 'powerful,' 'mighty,' or 'able,' often referring to human capability (Romans 15:1) or, more significantly, to God's omnipotence (Romans 4:21). When applied to things or situations, it means 'possible,' indicating what can or cannot be done, famously in Jesus's statement 'with God all things are possible' (Matthew 19:26). In some contexts, it describes influential or prominent people (2 Corinthians 10:4).

Biblical Usage

δυνατός is used across the Gospels, Acts, and the Epistles. A key pattern is its use in contrasting human limitation with divine omnipotence. In the Gospels, it frequently appears in statements about salvation being possible only with God (Mark 10:27) and in Jesus's prayers in Gethsemane (Mark 14:36). Paul uses it to describe the powerful weapons of spiritual warfare (2 Corinthians 10:4) and the ability of the 'strong' to bear with the 'weak' (Romans 15:1). It also describes the 'noble and powerful' in Corinth (1 Corinthians 1:26).

Etymology

Derived from the verb δύναμαι (dynamai, G1410), meaning 'to be able' or 'to have power.' It shares its root with the noun δύναμις (dynamis, G1411), meaning 'power' or 'miracle.' The adjective form emphasizes the state or quality of being powerful or able, a concept central to the New Testament's portrayal of divine agency versus human limitation.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it directly addresses the nature of God's power and human dependence. The declaration that certain things are 'possible' or 'impossible' for humans but 'possible with God' (Matthew 19:26) underscores the doctrine of God's sovereignty and grace in salvation. It challenges human self-sufficiency and points to the source of true spiritual strength and ability, enriching our understanding of passages on faith, prayer, and divine intervention.

In the Greco-Roman world, δυνατός was used for political/military power and social influence. The New Testament often subverts this, applying the term primarily to spiritual reality and God's kingdom, showing that true power resides not in human status but in divine capability and the paradox of strength in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

δύναμις (dynamis, G1411) — a noun meaning 'power,' 'miracle,' or 'inherent strength,' focusing on the force itself rather than the state of being able. ἰσχυρός (ischyros, G2478) — emphasizes physical strength, might, or force, often more brute or forceful power. ἐξουσία (exousia, G1849) — denotes 'authority,' 'right,' or 'delegated power,' focusing on the right to act rather than the inherent ability.

Word Details

Scripture References