### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katadynasteúō**, represented by `{{G2616}}`, means **to exercise dominion against, i.e. oppress**. This term is formed from κατά and a derivative of δυνάστης. It appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses**, highlighting specific instances of hostile power being used against others.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2616}}` describes both spiritual and social oppression. It is used to define the ministry of Jesus, who was anointed by **God** `{{G2316}}` to go about **doing good** `{{G2109}}` and **healing** `{{G2390}}` all who were **oppressed** by the **devil** `{{G1228}}` [[Acts 10:38]]. The term is also used by James to challenge believers who favor the wealthy, asking if it is not the **rich men** `{{G4145}}` who **oppress** them and **draw** `{{G1670}}` them before the **judgment seats** `{{G2922}}` [[James 2:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature and context of this oppression:
* `{{G1228}}` **diábolos** (devil): This word, meaning "a traducer; specially, Satan," is identified as the source of spiritual oppression. In [[Acts 10:38]], Jesus's work is to heal those who are **oppressed** by this entity.
* `{{G4145}}` **ploúsios** (rich): Meaning "wealthy," this term identifies the human agents of oppression in James. It is the **rich** who **oppress** the poor [[James 2:6]].
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (power): Defined as "force... specially, miraculous power," this is what **God** `{{G2316}}` anointed Jesus with, enabling Him to counteract the oppression of the devil [[Acts 10:38]].
* `{{G4434}}` **ptōchós** (poor): Meaning "pauper... distressed," this word identifies the victims of social oppression. Believers are warned not to have **despised** `{{G818}}` the **poor**, whom the rich **oppress** [[James 2:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2616}}` is significant, highlighting a core conflict in scripture.
* **Divine Opposition to Oppression:** The work of **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` is presented as a direct counter to those who are **oppressed**. He was specifically **anointed** `{{G5548}}` with **power** `{{G1411}}` to liberate those under the devil's dominion [[Acts 10:38]].
* **Sources of Oppression:** The Bible identifies two primary sources for this oppressive force. It can be a spiritual power, the **devil** `{{G1228}}`, or it can be a human power, such as **rich men** `{{G4145}}` who exploit others ([[Acts 10:38]]; [[James 2:6]]).
* **The Warning Against Complicity:** James uses the term to admonish the church for showing partiality. By despising the **poor** `{{G4434}}`, they were aligning themselves against the very people who were being **oppressed** by the rich [[James 2:6]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2616}}` is a powerful term that describes the hostile exercise of dominion over others. It is not a passive state but an active assault, whether from a spiritual adversary like the **devil** or from social structures where the **rich** exploit the **poor**. Scripture firmly positions **God's** **power** `{{G1411}}`, through **Jesus**, as the definitive answer to this oppression, and it calls believers to stand with the oppressed rather than with their oppressors.
TRV