### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katischýō**, represented by `{{G2729}}`, means **to overpower** or **prevail (against)**. Derived from κατά and ἰσχύω, it conveys the idea of gaining dominance or being stronger than an opposing force. It appears only **3 times** across **2 unique verses**, making each usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2729}}` is used in two sharply contrasting contexts. In Matthew, it appears in a divine promise where Jesus declares that he will build his church, and "the gates of hell shall not **prevail against** it" [[Matthew 16:18]]. This usage denotes an ultimate, spiritual inability to be overcome. Conversely, in Luke's account of the crucifixion, the word describes a temporary, human victory, where the loud voices of the crowd and the **chief priests** **prevailed** in their demand for Jesus to be crucified [[Luke 23:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the contexts in which `{{G2729}}` is found:
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (church): This word for a religious congregation is the subject of the promise in [[Matthew 16:18]]. It is the entity which, according to Jesus' words, cannot be overpowered.
* `{{G1945}}` **epíkeimai** (to be instant, press upon): In [[Luke 23:23]], the crowd's demands that **prevailed** are described using this word, as they were **instant** with loud voices. This shows the intense pressure that led to them overpowering the situation.
* `{{G749}}` **archiereús** (chief priest): This term identifies a key group whose voices **prevailed** alongside the crowd's in securing Christ's crucifixion [[Luke 23:23]].
* `{{G3618}}` **oikodoméō** (to build): This word is used by Jesus when he says, "I will **build** my church" [[Matthew 16:18]], establishing the foundation that is promised to never be prevailed against.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2729}}` arises from its dual application, highlighting different forms of power.
* **Divine Assurance:** Its use in [[Matthew 16:18]] establishes a foundational promise of the church's endurance and ultimate victory against any opposition. The power of God in building his church `{{G1577}}` ensures it cannot be overpowered.
* **Human Agency:** The use in [[Luke 23:23]] demonstrates that human will and pressure can **prevail** in the earthly realm, achieving a specific, though temporary, outcome. The insistence of the crowd and **chief priests** `{{G749}}` succeeded in bringing about the crucifixion `{{G4717}}`.
* **Contrasting Victories:** The word contrasts a momentary, human victory that fulfills a tragic purpose with an eternal, divine promise of invincibility. It shows that what may seem to **prevail** in one sense can be part of a larger, sovereign plan.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2729}}` is a concise and potent term that, despite its infrequent use, captures a critical theological tension. It defines both the unbreakable promise of the church's security and the capacity of human insistence to achieve its immediate goals. Through its two distinct applications, the word illustrates the difference between earthly power, which can succeed for a moment, and divine power, which will ultimately **prevail** for eternity.
TRV