κράτος

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word krátos, represented by G2904, signifies vigor, dominion, might, and strength. It appears 12 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible. This term conveys the concept of manifested power and sovereign dominion, an active and demonstrable strength that is most often ascribed to God.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In scripture, G2904 is used to describe divine power in various contexts. It frequently appears in doxologies, ascribing eternal "dominion" to God and Christ (1 Peter 4:11, Revelation 1:6). The word also denotes God's active strength, as in Luke's account where God "hath shewed strength with his arm" Luke 1:51. Paul uses it to describe the immense power available to believers, which he calls "the power of his might" Ephesians 6:10. In a contrasting context, it is used to describe the devil's hold, the "power of death," which Christ came to destroy Hebrews 2:14.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words help clarify the meaning of G2904:

• G1411 dýnamis (force... miraculous power): This term is often used with G2904 to describe the full scope of God's power. In Colossians 1:11, believers are strengthened with all might (dýnamis) according to God's "glorious power" (krátos).
• G2479 ischýs (forcefulness... might): This word is paired directly with G2904 to emphasize the magnitude of God's strength, as seen in the phrase "the working of his mighty power" (krátos of his ischýs) Ephesians 1:19.
• G1849 exousía (delegated influence... authority): While G2904 refers to manifested strength, exousía often denotes the right to wield power. Both are ascribed to God together, as in "dominion (krátos) and power (exousía)" Jude 1:25.
• G1391 dóxa (glory): This word is frequently linked with G2904 in worship, connecting God's sovereign "dominion" to his divine "glory" Revelation 5:13.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G2904 is significant, highlighting God's supreme and active rule.

• Sovereign Dominion: The term is central to affirming God's ultimate and everlasting reign. Ascriptions like "to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever" establish His supreme authority over all creation 1 Peter 5:11.
• Demonstrated Strength: G2904 is not merely an abstract attribute but a power actively displayed. This is seen in the "working of his mighty power" Ephesians 1:19 and how the word of God "mightily" grew and prevailed Acts 19:20.
• Power Over Spiritual Forces: The word frames the spiritual conflict, showing Christ's ultimate victory. Through his death, Jesus destroyed the one who held the "power of death," the devil, proving His dominion is superior Hebrews 2:14.

Summary

In summary, G2904 is a definitive term for manifested strength and sovereign rule. It is used to describe everything from God's active power in the world to the eternal dominion ascribed to Him in worship. It illustrates the unshakeable and demonstrable strength that belongs to God, forming a key aspect of His nature as the all-powerful ruler to whom belongs "honour and power everlasting" 1 Timothy 6:16.