### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb καρτερέω (karteréō) `{{G2594}}` is derived from a root related to κράτος (kratos) `{{G2904}}`, meaning "strength," "power," or "dominion." This etymological connection is crucial for understanding its core meaning. While its base definition points to "being strong," its usage in the New Testament (and wider Koine Greek) extends to the figurative sense of "being steadfast," "patient," or "enduring." It signifies not merely passive suffering, but an active, resolute strength in the face of adversity, a firmness of purpose that holds fast. It implies an inner fortitude that enables one to persist without yielding or faltering, often against significant opposition or difficulty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word καρτερέω (karteréō) `{{G2594}}` appears only once in the New Testament, in the Epistle to the Hebrews:
* **[[Hebrews 11:27]]**: "By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the king's wrath, for he *endured* as seeing Him who is invisible."
In this singular, yet profoundly significant, occurrence, the subject is Moses. The text describes Moses' courageous departure from Egypt, an act that defied the immense power and wrath of Pharaoh. The verb καρτερέω (karteréō) here conveys the extraordinary strength and unwavering resolve Moses demonstrated. His ability to "endure" (or "be steadfast," "hold firm") was not based on his own inherent power or a lack of fear, but explicitly "as seeing Him who is invisible." This phrase illuminates the source of his endurance: a profound faith and spiritual perception of God, who is unseen yet supremely real and powerful. Moses' steadfastness was therefore a direct consequence of his spiritual vision and trust in God, enabling him to withstand the most formidable earthly opposition.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of καρτερέω (karteréō) `{{G2594}}` intersects with several related Greek terms that convey aspects of strength, endurance, and patience:
* **κράτος (kratos) `{{G2904}}`**: The root noun, meaning "strength," "power," or "dominion." This direct etymological link underscores that καρτερέω implies an endurance rooted in power or strength, rather than weakness.
* **ὑπομονή (hypomonē) `{{G5281}}`**: This is a very common New Testament word for "endurance," "perseverance," or "steadfastness." While similar, ὑπομονή often emphasizes the act of "remaining under" pressure or tribulation, patiently awaiting a desired outcome. Καρτερέω, by its root, might place more emphasis on the *strength* or *fortitude* that enables such endurance.
* **μακροθυμία (makrothymia) `{{G3115}}`**: Meaning "longsuffering" or "patience," particularly in relation to people or provocation. While it involves enduring, its focus is more on delaying wrath or showing forbearance.
* **πίστις (pistis) `{{G4102}}`**: "Faith." As seen in [[Hebrews 11:27]], faith is presented as the foundational quality that enables καρτερέω. It is by faith in the unseen God that one gains the strength to endure.
### Theological Significance
The single occurrence of καρτερέω (karteréō) `{{G2594}}` in [[Hebrews 11:27]] carries profound theological weight. It is situated within the "Hall of Faith," a testament to the lives of those who lived by trust in God. The endurance described is not merely human stoicism or resilience, but a divinely enabled steadfastness.
1. **Faith as the Foundation of Endurance**: Moses' ability to "endure" against Pharaoh's wrath was not a personal attribute but a direct result of "seeing Him who is invisible." This highlights that true Christian endurance is not self-generated but flows from a living faith in the unseen God. It is God's power, apprehended by faith, that empowers believers to stand firm.
2. **The Invisible God as the Source of Strength**: The phrase "seeing Him who is invisible" points to the spiritual reality that sustains the believer. While the world may only perceive visible threats and obstacles, the person of faith gazes upon the invisible, yet all-powerful, God. This spiritual vision provides the inner strength (κράτος) to persevere through trials that would otherwise overwhelm.
3. **A Model for Believers**: Moses serves as an archetype of faith-fueled perseverance. His example teaches that when faced with overwhelming opposition, the believer's gaze should be fixed not on the visible dangers, but on the invisible God, whose promises and presence are eternally real and sufficient. This endurance is a hallmark of genuine faith.
### Summary
Καρτερέω (karteréō) `{{G2594}}` is a powerful Greek verb rooted in the concept of strength (κράτος). Though appearing only once in the New Testament, its use in [[Hebrews 11:27]] is exceptionally illustrative. It describes the resolute and steadfast endurance of Moses, an endurance made possible not by his own might, but by his faith in and spiritual perception of "Him who is invisible." This word underscores that true biblical endurance is not a passive resignation but an active, divinely empowered steadfastness, firmly grounded in a living relationship with God. It serves as a profound reminder that the unseen reality of God's presence and power is the ultimate source of strength for believers to stand firm amidst all opposition.
TRV