### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **krataióō**, represented by `{{G2901}}`, is used to mean **empower** or to passively **increase in vigor**. The term signifies a strengthening process, whether in the context of natural development or spiritual empowerment. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G2901}}` describes two primary forms of strengthening. It is used to characterize the developmental growth of a child, as seen in the descriptions of both John the Baptist [[Luke 1:80]] and Jesus, who "waxed **strong** in spirit" [[Luke 2:40]]. This form of strength is associated with growing `{{G837}}` and, in the case of Jesus, being "filled with wisdom" [[Luke 2:40]]. The word is also used as a divine empowerment for believers. Paul prays that the Ephesians would be **strengthened** with might by God's Spirit in the inner man [[Ephesians 3:16]] and commands the Corinthians to "**be strong**" as part of a series of exhortations to spiritual readiness [[1 Corinthians 16:13]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of the strength conveyed by `{{G2901}}`:
* `{{G837}}` **auxánō** (to grow ("wax"), i.e. enlarge): This word is used alongside `{{G2901}}` to describe the maturation of both John and Jesus ([[Luke 1:80]], [[Luke 2:40]]), linking the idea of becoming strong to a process of growth and increase.
* `{{G1411}}` **dýnamis** (force... miraculous power... might... strength): This specifies the kind of empowerment believers receive. In [[Ephesians 3:16]], believers are to be strengthened with **might** `{{G1411}}`, indicating a strength that is a miraculous work of God.
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma** (a spirit... the Holy Spirit): This word identifies the realm or agent of strengthening. Both [[Luke 1:80]] and [[Luke 2:40]] note that the children grew strong "in **spirit**," while [[Ephesians 3:16]] states that this empowerment comes "by his **Spirit**."
* `{{G407}}` **andrízomai** (to act manly): In [[1 Corinthians 16:13]], this command appears directly before "be strong," framing the strength of `{{G2901}}` as a component of spiritual maturity and fortitude.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2901}}` is seen in its application to both Christ's development and the believer's spiritual life.
* **A Mark of Maturation:** The use of `{{G2901}}` to describe the development of Jesus and John the Baptist establishes a pattern where growing strong is a key aspect of maturation. It is tied to growing `{{G837}}` in spirit ([[Luke 1:80]], [[Luke 2:40]]).
* **A Divinely Sourced Power:** The strength of `{{G2901}}` is not self-generated. It is a gift granted `{{G1325}}` by God "according to the riches of his glory" and is enabled by his Spirit working in the "inner man" [[Ephesians 3:16]].
* **A Command for Believers:** In [[1 Corinthians 16:13]], the command to "be **strong**" is presented as an essential discipline for believers, coupled with the need to be watchful `{{G1127}}` and stand fast `{{G4739}}` in the faith.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2901}}` encompasses more than simple physical power. It represents a vital increase in vigor that is both a sign of proper development, as seen in Christ, and a necessary, Spirit-imparted strength for the believer. This strength is a gift from God, rooted in His glory, and is required for believers to stand firm and mature in their faith.
TRV