from δύναμαι; powerful or capable (literally or figuratively); neuter possible:--able, could, (that is) mighty (man), possible, power, strong.
Transliteration:dynatós
Pronunciation:doo-nat-os'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective δυνατός (dynatós, `{{G1415}}`) is derived from the verb δύναμαι (dynamai, `{{G1410}}`), meaning "to be able," "to have power," or "to be capable." Fundamentally, δυνατός describes that which possesses power, ability, or strength.
Its semantic range encompasses several nuances:
* **Physical or Inherent Ability:** It can denote physical strength or the inherent capacity to perform an action, as in being "strong" or "able."
* **Capability or Feasibility:** In a broader sense, it refers to the capacity for something to happen or be done, often translated as "possible" (especially in its neuter form, δυνατόν or δυνατά).
* **Authority or Influence:** When applied to persons, it can signify someone who is "mighty," "powerful," or holds a position of influence and authority.
* **Divine Omnipotence:** Crucially, it is frequently used to describe the absolute power and capability of God, highlighting His omnipotence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term δυνατός appears numerous times in the New Testament, often revealing profound theological truths through its context:
* **Describing God's Power:** This is perhaps its most significant usage. God is consistently portrayed as δυνατός, emphasizing His limitless ability to act.
* In [[Luke 1:49]], Mary proclaims, "for the Mighty One has done great things for me," referring to God's powerful intervention in her life.
* [[Romans 11:23]] speaks of God's ability to graft the Jewish people back into His plan: "for God is able to graft them in again."
* [[2 Corinthians 9:8]] assures believers of God's provision: "And God is able to make all grace abound to you."
* [[Ephesians 3:20]] offers a doxology to God: "Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think."
* [[Hebrews 11:19]] highlights Abraham's faith in God's power over death: "God was able even to raise him from the dead."
* **Describing Human Ability or Status:**
* [[Romans 15:1]] exhorts believers: "We who are strong [δυνατοί] ought to bear with the failings of the weak." Here, δυνατοί refers to those who are mature and capable in faith.
* [[1 Corinthians 1:26]] notes that "not many wise according to worldly standards, not many powerful [δυνατοί], not many of noble birth" are called, contrasting human worldly power with God's choosing of the weak.
* [[2 Timothy 1:12]] expresses Paul's confidence in God's protective power: "I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me."
* **Referring to Possibility or Feasibility:**
* In the famous exchange in [[Matthew 19:26]], Jesus declares, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible [δυνατά]." The neuter plural δυνατά directly translates to "things that are possible."
* [[Mark 14:36]] records Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane: "Abba, Father, all things are possible [δυνατά] for you."
* [[Acts 20:16]] uses it in a more practical sense: "if it were possible [δυνατόν], he would arrive in Jerusalem by the day of Pentecost."
### Related Words & Concepts
δυνατός is part of a significant word family in the New Testament, all revolving around the concept of power and ability:
* δύναμαι (dynamai, `{{G1410}}`): The verb, meaning "to be able," "to have power." It is the root from which δυνατός is directly derived.
* δύναμις (dynamis, `{{G1411}}`): The noun, meaning "power," "strength," "ability," or "miracle." It often refers to inherent power, miraculous acts, or the working of divine power.
* δυνατέω (dynateō, `{{G1414}}`): A less common verb, meaning "to be powerful" or "to be mighty."
* **Antonym:** ἀδύνατος (adynatos, `{{G102}}`), formed by the alpha privative, meaning "impossible," "powerless," or "weak." This antonym often appears in direct contrast to δυνατός, particularly in discussions of what is humanly impossible versus divinely possible.
* **Conceptual Links:** The word connects to broader theological concepts such as divine sovereignty, omnipotence, human limitation, grace, and faith in God's ability.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of δυνατός is profound and multifaceted:
* **Foundation of Faith:** The understanding that God is δυνατός forms the bedrock of biblical faith. It assures believers that God is not limited by human constraints or natural laws, but is able to accomplish all His purposes, including salvation, resurrection, and the fulfillment of His promises ([[Romans 4:21]]).
* **Contrast of Divine and Human Power:** The frequent contrast between human inability (ἀδύνατος) and divine capability (δυνατός) highlights the absolute necessity of God's intervention for salvation and spiritual transformation. What is impossible for humanity is perfectly possible for God ([[Matthew 19:26]]). This underscores the sovereignty of God and the dependence of humanity upon Him.
* **Empowerment for Believers:** While humans are inherently limited, God can make them δυνατός for His service through the indwelling Holy Spirit. Believers are called to rely not on their own strength, but on the power of God working within them ([[Philippians 4:13]]).
* **Christ's Authority and Power:** As the Son of God, Jesus Christ inherently possesses divine δύναμις and is δυνατός. His miracles, resurrection, and ultimate authority are all expressions of this divine power.
* **Hope in God's Deliverance:** In times of trial and impossibility, the truth that God is δυνατός provides immense hope and comfort, reminding believers that God is able to deliver and sustain them through any circumstance.
### Summary
The Greek adjective δυνατός (dynatós, `{{G1415}}`), rooted in the concept of "ability" or "power," is a versatile term in the New Testament. While it can describe human strength, capability, or social standing, its most profound and frequent application is in articulating the boundless power of God. It emphasizes His omnipotence, His capacity to accomplish all things, even those deemed impossible by human standards. The theological significance of δυνατός lies in its affirmation of God's absolute sovereignty, providing the ultimate foundation for faith, hope, and reliance on His divine ability to save, sustain, and fulfill His promises. It stands as a constant reminder that for God, "all things are δυνατά."
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