### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hikanóō**, represented by `{{G2427}}`, means **to enable, i.e. qualify**. It is a concise term, appearing only **4 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The word's core meaning revolves around the act of being made sufficient, fit, or competent for a specific purpose, not by one's own power, but through an external enabling force.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2427}}` describes a divine action of qualification. In 2 Corinthians, believers are described as having been **made able ministers** of a new testament, a qualification that comes not from the letter but from the spirit that "giveth life" [[2 Corinthians 3:6]]. Similarly, in Colossians, believers give thanks to the Father who "hath **made us meet** to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light" [[Colossians 1:12]]. In both instances, the word signifies that God is the one who renders individuals sufficient for their holy calling and destiny.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context in which one is made able or meet:
* `{{G1249}}` **diákonos**: This word for **minister** or servant describes the role for which God enables believers. It is used to define them as "able **ministers** of the new testament" [[2 Corinthians 3:6]].
* `{{G2819}}` **klēros**: Meaning **heritage** or **inheritance**, this is the divine portion believers are qualified to receive. God has made them meet to share in the "**inheritance** of the saints in light" [[Colossians 1:12]].
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma**: This word for **spirit** is central to the qualification. The ministry believers are enabled for is of the **spirit** that gives life, not the letter that kills [[2 Corinthians 3:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2427}}` is rooted in the concept of divine grace and empowerment.
* **Divine Qualification:** The word emphasizes that sufficiency for spiritual life and service is not a human achievement but a gift from God. It is God who "hath made" believers both able and meet for His purposes ([[2 Corinthians 3:6]], [[Colossians 1:12]]).
* **Enablement for Ministry:** Believers are qualified by God to be effective **ministers** `{{G1249}}` of the new **covenant** `{{G1242}}`. This ministry is empowered by the **spirit** `{{G4151}}`, which brings life [[2 Corinthians 3:6]].
* **Fitness for Inheritance:** The act of being made "meet" qualifies believers for their spiritual **inheritance** `{{G2819}}`. This means being made fit to be **partakers** `{{G3310}}` in the sacred destiny of the **saints** `{{G40}}` who dwell in **light** `{{G5457}}` [[Colossians 1:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2427}}` is a crucial term for understanding the source of a believer's adequacy. While rare in its usage, **hikanóō** powerfully communicates that it is God alone who qualifies individuals for both their present service as ministers of the new covenant and their future participation in the inheritance of the saints. It fundamentally defines the Christian's sufficiency as originating in a divine act, not in personal ability.
TRV