### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb δυναμόω (dynamóō), Strong's number `{{G1412}}`, is derived from the noun δύναμις (dynamis), `{{G1411}}`, meaning "power," "might," or "ability." Thus, the core meaning of δυναμόω is "to make strong," "to empower," or "to enable." It signifies the act of imparting or increasing strength, not merely physical, but also spiritual, moral, or internal fortitude. It denotes the active process of being imbued with power, suggesting an external source bestowing capability.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, δυναμόω (dynamóō) appears only once, in the Epistle to the Colossians:
* **[[Colossians 1:11]]**: "being strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy."
* In this context, the participle "being strengthened" (δυναμούμενοι) is passive, indicating that the believers are the recipients of this divine empowerment. The source of this strengthening is explicitly stated as "all power" (ἐν πάσῃ δυνάμει), which is further qualified as being "according to his glorious might" (κατὰ τὸ κράτος τῆς δόξης αὐτοῦ). This underscores that the strength is not inherent in the believer but flows from God's own majestic power.
* The purpose of this divine strengthening is profoundly practical: it enables believers to exhibit "all endurance and patience with joy." This highlights that God's empowerment is not for self-aggrandizement but for the cultivation of Christ-like character, particularly in the face of trials and adversities. It allows believers to bear up under pressure with steadfastness and even a joyful disposition, which is a testament to the Spirit's work.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek terms are closely related to δυναμόω (dynamóō) in meaning and often appear in conjunction with it or in similar theological contexts:
* **δύναμις (dynamis)** `{{G1411}}`: The root noun, referring to inherent power, ability, or miraculous power. It is the raw capacity or might from which the verb δυναμόω derives its meaning.
* **ἐνδυναμόω (endynamóō)** `{{G1743}}`: This verb, meaning "to empower," "to strengthen within," or "to enable," is a very close synonym and is more frequently used in the New Testament (e.g., [[Ephesians 6:10]], [[Philippians 4:13]], [[2 Timothy 2:1]]). While δυναμόω emphasizes the act of making strong, ἐνδυναμόω often implies the impartation of strength *into* someone. The distinction is subtle but significant in highlighting the divine indwelling and active empowerment.
* **ἰσχύς (ischys)** `{{G2479}}`: Denotes strength, might, or ability, often emphasizing inherent or physical capability. It can refer to the full measure of one's strength.
* **κράτος (kratos)** `{{G2904}}`: Signifies power, dominion, or might, particularly as exercised in rule or authority. In [[Colossians 1:11]], it is used alongside δόξα (doxa, glory) to describe the majestic and authoritative power of God.
* **δυνατός (dynatos)** `{{G1415}}`: The adjective form, meaning "powerful," "mighty," or "able." It describes one who possesses δύναμις.
These words collectively paint a robust picture of divine power as the ultimate source of enablement for believers.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of δυναμόω (dynamóō) in [[Colossians 1:11]] carries profound theological weight:
* **Divine Source of Strength:** It unequivocally establishes that true spiritual strength for Christian living originates not from human will or effort, but from God's glorious might. This underscores a theology of dependence, where believers draw upon an inexhaustible divine resource.
* **Empowerment for Christian Living:** The purpose of this divine strengthening is highly practical and transformative. It enables believers to endure trials, exercise patience, and maintain joy, even amidst suffering. This highlights God's active role in equipping His people to live out their faith authentically in a challenging world.
* **Holistic Transformation:** The strengthening is not merely for specific tasks but for the overall character development of the believer. It contributes to a holistic transformation that impacts one's inner disposition (joy) and outward conduct (endurance, patience).
* **Assurance and Hope:** For the believer, δυναμόω offers assurance that God is actively at work within them, providing the necessary power to fulfill His callings and to persevere through all circumstances. It instills hope, reminding them that they are not left to their own limited abilities.
### Summary
The Greek verb δυναμόω (dynamóō), `{{G1412}}`, meaning "to strengthen" or "to empower," appears uniquely in [[Colossians 1:11]] in the New Testament. This singular occurrence is highly significant, emphasizing that the believer's strength for "all endurance and patience with joy" is not self-generated but divinely bestowed, flowing from God's "glorious might." It underscores a fundamental theological truth: Christian living, especially in its most challenging aspects, requires constant reliance on God's active empowerment. This word highlights the active role of God in equipping His people, transforming their inner being, and enabling them to live faithfully and joyfully amidst adversity.
TRV