of uncertain affinity; to be able or possible:--be able, can (do, + -not), could, may, might, be possible, be of power.
Transliteration:dýnamai
Pronunciation:doo'-nam-ahee
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G1410}}` *dýnamai* fundamentally means "to be able," "to have power," or "to be capable." Its semantic range extends to encompass the potential or possibility of an action or state. It denotes an inherent capacity or the possession of the necessary means, authority, or strength to achieve something. Unlike verbs that merely indicate permission (e.g., `{{G1832}}` *exesti*), *dýnamai* emphasizes actual ability. In some contexts, it can also convey the idea of something being "possible" or "impossible," often in conjunction with a negative particle.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
`{{G1410}}` *dýnamai* is a frequently occurring verb in the New Testament, appearing over 200 times. Its usage reveals critical theological insights:
* **Divine Ability and Omnipotence:** The word is often used to describe the boundless power of God and Christ. God *is able* to do "exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or imagine" ([[Ephesians 3:20]]). Jesus' ability to heal the sick, cast out demons, calm storms, and raise the dead consistently demonstrates his divine *dýnamai*. His declaration, "All things are possible for one who believes," ([[Mark 9:23]]) directly links divine ability to human faith.
* **Human Ability and Inability:** The New Testament frequently contrasts human limitation with divine power. People are often depicted as *unable* to understand spiritual truths ([[1 Corinthians 2:14]]), to serve two masters ([[Matthew 6:24]]), or to save themselves ([[Romans 8:3]]). The disciples, for instance, were *unable* to cast out a particular demon ([[Matthew 17:16, Matthew 17:19]]), highlighting their need for greater faith and reliance on God. Conversely, `{{G1410}}` is used positively for human ability when empowered by God, as in Paul's famous declaration, "I can do all things through him who strengthens me" ([[Philippians 4:13]]). This is not a statement of self-sufficiency but of Christ-sufficiency.
* **Possibility and Impossibility:** The concept of possibility is strongly conveyed. Jesus states that "with God all things are possible" ([[Matthew 19:26]], [[Mark 10:27]], [[Luke 18:27]]), a profound affirmation of divine sovereignty and power. Conversely, certain things are deemed impossible without divine intervention, such as a rich person entering the kingdom of heaven ([[Matthew 19:24-26]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{G1410}}` *dýnamai* belongs to a significant word family in the Greek New Testament:
* `{{G1411}}` *dynamis*: The noun form, meaning "power," "strength," "ability," or "miracle." It often refers to inherent power or the manifestation of power.
* `{{G1415}}` *dynatos*: The adjective, meaning "powerful," "able," or "possible."
* `{{G1413}}` *dynateō*: A less common verb, meaning "to be powerful" or "to enable."
Other related terms include:
* `{{G2478}}` *ischuō*: To be strong, to prevail, often implying physical or prevailing strength. While *ischuō* emphasizes robust strength, *dýnamai* is broader, encompassing inherent capacity and potential.
* `{{G1832}}` *exesti*: It is lawful, it is permitted. This contrasts with *dýnamai* by referring to permission rather than inherent ability. One may be permitted to do something but lack the ability, or vice versa.
* `{{G2192}}` *echō*: To have, possess. While *echō* can sometimes imply having the means, *dýnamai* directly addresses the capacity to act.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1410}}` *dýnamai* is immense:
* **Divine Omnipotence and Sovereignty:** The frequent application of *dýnamai* to God and Christ underscores their absolute power and sovereignty over all creation, sin, and death. It assures believers of God's ability to fulfill His promises and accomplish His will.
* **The Power of the Gospel:** The gospel itself is described as the "power [`{{G1411}}` *dynamis*] of God for salvation" ([[Romans 1:16]]), implying God's active ability to transform lives.
* **Human Inability and Dependence:** The repeated portrayal of human inability highlights humanity's fallen state and utter dependence on God's grace and power for salvation and righteous living. Without God, humanity *cannot* achieve true spiritual life.
* **Empowerment of Believers:** Crucially, *dýnamai* also speaks to the empowerment of believers through the Holy Spirit. What is impossible for humans alone becomes possible through Christ who strengthens them. This divine enablement allows believers to overcome sin, live righteously, and participate in God's mission.
* **Faith and Possibility:** The close connection between faith and "all things being possible" ([[Mark 9:23]]) emphasizes that faith is the means by which humans apprehend and experience God's boundless ability.
### Summary
The Greek verb `{{G1410}}` *dýnamai* is a pivotal term in the New Testament, signifying "to be able," "to have power," or "to be possible." It consistently highlights the inherent capacity for action, ranging from human capabilities to the infinite omnipotence of God. Contextual analysis reveals its profound theological implications: it powerfully affirms God's limitless ability in creation, redemption, and the miraculous; it starkly contrasts human limitations with divine power; and it underscores the transformative enablement provided to believers through Christ. Ultimately, *dýnamai* serves as a foundational concept for understanding both God's sovereign power and the believer's dependence upon, and empowerment by, divine grace.
TRV