from Α (as a negative particle) and δυνατός; unable, i.e. weak (literally or figuratively); passively, impossible:--could not do, impossible, impotent, not possible, weak.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ἀδύνατος (adýnatos)**, represented by `{{G102}}`, defines that which is **unable**, **weak**, or **impossible**. It is formed from a negative particle and the word for "powerful." Appearing **10 times** in **10 unique verses**, this term is used to describe physical weakness, the limitations of the law, and circumstances that are beyond human capability.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G102}}` is used to draw a sharp contrast between human limitation and divine power. It describes a man who was physically **impotent** from birth [[Acts 14:8]]. The word also frames theological truths, such as in the parallel accounts where Jesus states that with men certain things are **impossible**, but with God all things are possible ([[Matthew 19:26]]; [[Mark 10:27]]; [[Luke 18:27]]). The law is described as what "could not do" its work because it was weak through the flesh [[Romans 8:3]]. Furthermore, it is deemed **impossible** to please God without faith [[Hebrews 11:6]] and **not possible** for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins [[Hebrews 10:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G102}}`:
* `{{G1415}}` **dynatós** (powerful or capable): This is the direct positive counterpart to `{{G102}}`. It is often used in the same verse to contrast what is **impossible** for man with what is **possible** for God [[Matthew 19:26]].
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): This word is essential for understanding a key limitation defined by `{{G102}}`. It is **impossible** to please God without **faith** [[Hebrews 11:6]].
* `{{G5565}}` **chōrís** (without): This adverb is used with `{{G102}}` to establish a condition of impossibility, as in being **without** faith [[Hebrews 11:6]].
* `{{G770}}` **asthenéō** (to be feeble, weak): This term explains why the law "could not do" what was intended; it was **weak** through the flesh [[Romans 8:3]].
* `{{G771}}` **asthénēma** (infirmity): This noun is used to describe the "infirmities" of the **weak** `{{G102}}` that the strong ought to bear [[Romans 15:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G102}}` is significant as it defines the boundaries of human and ceremonial efficacy, thereby pointing to the necessity of God's power.
* **Divine Omnipotence:** The word establishes a clear line between human and divine ability. Salvation is presented as something **impossible** for men, but entirely possible for God, highlighting His sovereignty [[Luke 18:27]].
* **Insufficiency of the Law:** By describing the law as something that "could not do" its job [[Romans 8:3]], `{{G102}}` underscores the inadequacy of the Mosaic covenant to bring about righteousness, pointing toward the need for Christ.
* **The Foundation of Faith:** It is declared **impossible** for God to lie [[Hebrews 6:18]], providing believers with a certain hope. It is also **impossible** to please God apart from faith, making belief the essential starting point of a relationship with Him [[Hebrews 11:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G102}}` is a crucial term that does more than simply mean "impossible." It functions to illustrate the limits of human strength, religious ritual, and the law itself. By defining what is not possible for man, it powerfully emphasizes what is uniquely possible for God, the absolute necessity of faith, and the immutable nature of God's promises. From describing a crippled man [[Acts 14:8]] to affirming God's truthfulness [[Hebrews 6:18]], `{{G102}}` consistently directs focus away from human weakness and toward divine power.
TRV