### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ischyrós**, represented by `{{G2478}}`, is a term for what is **forcible**, whether literally or figuratively. It appears **27 times** across **25 unique verses** in the Bible. Based on its root, ἰσχύς, it conveys concepts of being **mighty**, **powerful**, **strong**, or **valiant**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G2478}}` describes different kinds of power. John the Baptist uses it to declare that the one coming after him is **mightier than** I [[Matthew 3:11]]. The word is central to Jesus's parable of the **strong man**, whose house cannot be plundered unless someone first binds the **strong man** [[Mark 3:27]]. It also depicts the power of celestial beings, such as a **mighty** angel coming down from heaven [[Revelation 10:1]] or the voice of **mighty** thunderings [[Revelation 19:6]]. On a literal level, it describes a **boisterous** wind [[Matthew 14:30]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the nature of strength and power:
* `{{G772}}` **asthenḗs** (weak): As the direct opposite of `{{G2478}}`, this term highlights a key theological contrast. God chooses the **weak things** of the world to confound the things which are **mighty** [[1 Corinthians 1:27]].
* `{{G1210}}` **déō** (to bind): This word is directly linked to overcoming strength, as seen in the command to first **bind** the **strong man** (ischyrós) before spoiling his house [[Matthew 12:29]].
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (power, strength): This term for force or miraculous power is used alongside `{{G2478}}`, such as when the faithful quenched the **violence** (dýnamis) of fire and waxed **valiant** (ischyrós) in fight [[Hebrews 11:34]].
* `{{G1743}}` **endynamóō** (to empower): This verb signifies the act of making strong. In Hebrews, it is by this empowering that the weak were made **strong** and became **valiant** (ischyrós) in battle [[Hebrews 11:34]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2478}}` is significant, often illustrating the source and application of true power.
* **Christ's Authority:** The word establishes Christ's supreme power. He is the one who is **mightier** than John [[Mark 1:7]] and the one **stronger** who can overcome the **strong man** (Satan) and divide his spoils [[Luke 11:22]].
* **Divine Paradox:** Scripture reveals that God's power is often displayed in opposition to worldly strength. The **weakness** of God is described as **stronger than** men [[1 Corinthians 1:25]], and He chooses the **weak things** of the world to confound the **mighty** [[1 Corinthians 1:27]].
* **Strength in Believers:** Believers are called **strong** because the word of God abides in them, enabling them to overcome the wicked one [[1 John 2:14]]. This strength is a gift, as seen when the faithful were made **valiant** (ischyrós) out of weakness [[Hebrews 11:34]].
* **Power in Judgment:** The term is associated with divine judgment. The Lord God who judges Babylon is **strong** [[Revelation 18:8]], and **mighty** (ischyrós) angels are agents of divine proclamations and actions ([[Revelation 5:2]], [[Revelation 18:21]]).
### Summary
In summary, **ischyrós** `{{G2478}}` provides a rich vocabulary for power in the New Testament. It moves beyond simple physical force to describe the comparative strength of ministries, the authority of Christ over evil, the power of God and His angels, and the spiritual fortitude of believers. It uniquely captures the biblical paradox where divine strength is perfected in weakness, ultimately showing that all true might, whether for salvation or judgment, originates with God.
TRV