κραταιός

strong, powerful

Definition

Κραταιός is an adjective meaning strong, powerful, or mighty, often describing a strength that is firm, solid, and enduring. In the New Testament, it is used exclusively to describe the might of God, specifically His hand (1 Peter 5:6). This usage emphasizes not just raw power, but a sovereign, controlling strength that is both protective and authoritative. The term conveys a sense of established, unshakeable power, as opposed to a fleeting or brute force.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the New Testament, in 1 Peter 5:6: 'Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God.' Here, 'mighty' translates κραταιός. It is used in a pastoral context, instructing believers to submit to God's sovereign power and timing, with the promise that He will exalt them. The usage is entirely theocentric, describing a divine attribute.

Etymology

Κραταιός is derived from the noun κράτος (kratos, G2904), which means 'strength,' 'might,' or 'dominion.' It is related to the verb κρατέω (krateō, G2902), meaning 'to seize,' 'hold fast,' or 'rule.' The adjective form emphasizes the possession of this inherent, ruling power, describing something or someone characterized by sovereign strength.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it uniquely qualifies God's 'hand'—a biblical metaphor for His active power, discipline, and salvation in the world (e.g., Exodus 15:6). Understanding κραταιός enriches the reading of 1 Peter 5:6 by highlighting that our humility is a response to God's settled, sovereign, and purposeful might. It comforts believers that the power they submit to is ultimately for their good and exaltation.

In a Greco-Roman context, strength (κράτος) was a celebrated virtue, often associated with military or political dominance. By applying κραταιός solely to God, the New Testament subverts this cultural understanding, re-centering true, ultimate power in the divine rather than the human or imperial realm. It contrasts worldly, coercive power with God's purposeful and fatherly strength.

ἰσχυρός (ischyros, G2478) — emphasizes inherent force or ability, often physical; δυνατός (dynatos, G1415) — focuses on capability, power to do something; μέγας (megas, G3173) — can mean 'great' in scope, size, or importance, not solely strength.

Word Details

Scripture References