### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective κραταιός (krataiós) is derived from the noun `{{G2904}}` *kratos*, meaning "power," "might," or "dominion." Consequently, κραταιός signifies "powerful," "mighty," or "strong," often conveying a sense of formidable, overwhelming, or authoritative strength. It describes a power that is robust, unyielding, and actively demonstrated, rather than merely potential. While sharing semantic space with other Greek words for strength (e.g., `{{G2478}}` *ischuros* for physical strength, `{{G1411}}` *dynamis* for inherent ability or miraculous power), κραταιός frequently emphasizes the imposing and sovereign nature of the might it describes, particularly when applied to divine power. It suggests a strength that is difficult to resist and commands respect or submission.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term κραταιός appears sparingly in the New Testament, yet its occurrences are profoundly significant, exclusively describing the power of God:
* **Ephesians 6:10**: "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might." Here, κραταιός is used to describe the "might" (κράτος) of the Lord. Believers are exhorted not to rely on their own strength, but to draw upon the Lord's formidable and enabling power. This divine might is presented as the essential resource for spiritual warfare, allowing believers to stand firm against the forces of evil. The context of spiritual armor underscores the need for a power far greater than human capability.
* **1 Peter 5:6**: "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time." In this passage, κραταιός describes the "hand of God," a common biblical anthropomorphism for God's active power, judgment, and providential care. The "mighty hand" signifies God's supreme, irresistible authority and strength, before which humanity must humble itself. It is a hand that can both humble the proud and, in due time, exalt the humble, demonstrating God's sovereign control over circumstances and destinies.
In both instances, κραταιός points to a divine power that is absolute, sovereign, and active, serving either as the source of strength for believers or as the ultimate authority to which all must submit.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the noun `{{G2904}}` *kratos* (power, might, dominion, rule), from which κραταιός is directly derived. This root connection highlights the authoritative and dominating aspect of the power described by κραταιός.
Other related terms include:
* `{{G2902}}` *krataioo*: The verb form, meaning "to be made strong," "to be strengthened," or "to grow strong." This verb is often used in the passive voice to describe being empowered by an external force, particularly God's Spirit or grace (e.g., [[Luke 1:80]], [[Luke 2:40]], [[Ephesians 3:16]]).
* `{{G2478}}` *ischuros*: "Strong," "mighty," "powerful." While often used interchangeably, *ischuros* can emphasize physical strength or inherent robustness, whereas κραταιός leans towards an imposing, authoritative might.
* `{{G1411}}` *dynamis*: "Power," "ability," "miracle." This term often refers to inherent capacity, potential for action, or miraculous power.
* `{{G1849}}` *exousia*: "Authority," "power," "right." This word emphasizes legitimate power or jurisdiction.
κραταιός stands out for its specific nuance of overwhelming, sovereign, and often irresistible power, particularly when attributed to God.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of κραταιός is profound, as it illuminates key aspects of God's nature and His relationship with humanity.
1. **Divine Attribute**: κραταιός serves as a descriptor of God's inherent and active power. It portrays God as supremely mighty, His strength being absolute and beyond human comprehension or resistance. This attribute underpins His sovereignty over all creation and His ability to accomplish His will.
2. **Source of Believer's Strength**: In [[Ephesians 6:10]], the "strength of His might" is presented as the sole adequate resource for believers to withstand spiritual opposition. This underscores the theological truth that genuine spiritual strength is not self-generated but is a divine enablement, flowing from God's own formidable power. It calls believers to a radical dependence on God for their endurance and victory.
3. **Call to Humility and Submission**: The "mighty hand of God" in [[1 Peter 5:6]] compels humanity to humility. Before such immense, sovereign power, pride is futile and dangerous. Submission to God's mighty hand implies trust in His providential care and His perfect timing for exaltation. It highlights that God's power is not arbitrary but purposeful, often working to humble the proud and uplift the lowly.
4. **Divine Providence and Exaltation**: The context of [[1 Peter 5:6]] reveals that God's mighty hand is not only for humbling but also for eventual exaltation. Those who humble themselves under His power will be lifted up "in due time." This demonstrates that God's strength is exercised with wisdom and grace, leading His faithful ones to ultimate blessing and glory.
### Summary
κραταιός (krataiós) is a powerful Greek adjective denoting "mighty" or "powerful," stemming from `{{G2904}}` *kratos* (power, dominion). Its limited but impactful usage in the New Testament exclusively describes the formidable and sovereign power of God. In [[Ephesians 6:10]], it signifies the divine might that empowers believers for spiritual warfare, emphasizing their dependence on God's strength. In [[1 Peter 5:6]], it describes the "mighty hand of God," underscoring His absolute authority, His ability to humble the proud, and His ultimate power to exalt the humble in His perfect timing. The word thus highlights God's irresistible sovereignty, His role as the ultimate source of strength for His people, and the necessity of human humility and submission before His majestic power.
TRV