### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **exischýō**, represented by `{{G1840}}`, means **to have full strength** or to be **entirely competent**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in 1 unique verse in the Bible, which emphasizes its specific and significant meaning. Its etymology, from ἐκ (ek) and ἰσχύω (ischýō), suggests a strength that comes forth or is made fully manifest.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical occurrence of `{{G1840}}` is in [[Ephesians 3:18]], where it is used in a prayer for believers. The Apostle Paul prays that they may **be able** to comprehend the full dimensions of God's purpose. The use of this word implies that grasping such a profound truth is not possible through ordinary human capacity but requires a special, divinely-imparted strength. This competency is sought "with all saints," indicating a collective enablement.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its immediate context clarify the purpose of this divine strength:
* `{{G2638}}` **katalambánō**: to take eagerly, i.e. seize, possess... or comprehend. This is the goal for which strength is needed; to **comprehend** the divine mystery [[Ephesians 3:18]]. It is also used to describe how the darkness could not **comprehend** the light [[John 1:5]].
* `{{G40}}` **hágios**: sacred... holy (one, thing), saint. The ability to comprehend is a shared strength among all the **saints** [[Ephesians 3:18]], who are called to be a **holy** nation [[1 Peter 2:9]].
* `{{G899}}` **báthos**: profundity... depth. This is one of the dimensions believers are enabled to grasp. The term points to profound mystery, such as when the Spirit searches "the **deep things** of God" [[1 Corinthians 2:10]].
* `{{G4114}}`, `{{G3372}}`, `{{G5311}}`: **plátos**, **mēkos**, and **hýpsos** refer to the **breadth**, **length**, and **height**. Together with **depth**, these terms illustrate the immeasurable, all-encompassing scope of what is to be comprehended [[Ephesians 3:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1840}}` is centered on the concept of divine enablement for spiritual understanding.
* **Supernatural Competency:** The word establishes that understanding the deep things of God is beyond natural human ability. It requires being made "entirely competent" through a strength that originates from God.
* **Corporate Revelation:** This strength is not granted for individualistic insight alone, but is something experienced "with all **saints**" [[Ephesians 3:18]]. Comprehension of God's mystery is a corporate reality for the church.
* **Immeasurable Scope:** The purpose of this strength is to grasp something of infinite dimensions: the breadth, length, depth, and height. This points to the vastness of God's love and wisdom, which can only be approached through His power.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1840}}` is a potent and specific term that, despite its single use, is crucial for understanding the biblical view of spiritual enlightenment. It frames the comprehension of divine truth not as an intellectual achievement but as a gift of **full strength** from God. This divinely-given ability allows believers, as a unified body of **saints**, to begin to grasp the limitless and profound nature of God's redemptive plan.
TRV