from νίκη; to subdue (literally or figuratively):--conquer, overcome, prevail, get the victory.
Transliteration:nikáō
Pronunciation:nik-ah'-o
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb νικάω (nikáō), Strong's `{{G3528}}`, derives directly from the noun νίκη (níkē), meaning "victory" (`{{G3529}}`). Its core meaning encompasses the act of conquering, overcoming, prevailing, or getting the victory. This term signifies a successful engagement against an opponent or obstacle, resulting in triumph. The semantic range extends from literal victory in physical contests, battles, or legal disputes to figurative and spiritual conquests. It denotes the active assertion of superiority, the subjugation of an opposing force, and the achievement of a desired outcome in the face of resistance. The emphasis is on the decisive nature of the triumph, indicating that the struggle has been brought to a conclusive and victorious end.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While not extensively used in the Synoptic Gospels, νικάω gains significant prominence in the Pauline epistles and, most notably, in the Johannine writings (1 John and Revelation).
In Paul's letters, the verb often appears in the context of moral and spiritual struggle. For instance, in [[Romans 12:21]], believers are exhorted not to be "overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Here, νικάω describes an active, ethical triumph over the pervasive power of evil through righteous conduct. The victory is not passive but requires intentional engagement.
The Johannine corpus, however, presents the richest theological usage of νικάω. In 1 John, the concept of "overcoming the world" is central. [[1 John 4:4]] declares, "You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." Similarly, [[1 John 5:4-5]] states, "for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God." Here, the victory is intrinsically linked to divine origin, the indwelling Spirit, and faith in Jesus Christ, demonstrating that the believer's triumph is not self-generated but divinely empowered. The "world" here refers to the system of human rebellion against God, dominated by the "evil one."
In the Book of Revelation, νικάω becomes a recurring motif, appearing frequently, especially in the letters to the seven churches (Revelation 2-3). To "the one who overcomes" (ὁ νικῶν), specific promises are made, such as eating from the tree of life ([[Revelation 2:7]]), not being hurt by the second death ([[Revelation 2:11]]), receiving a white stone with a new name ([[Revelation 2:17]]), having authority over the nations ([[Revelation 2:26]]), being clothed in white garments ([[Revelation 3:5]]), becoming a pillar in the temple of God ([[Revelation 3:12]]), and sitting with Christ on His throne ([[Revelation 3:21]]). These promises underscore the eschatological rewards for faithful perseverance and spiritual triumph in the face of persecution and temptation. The Lamb himself is depicted as having "conquered" ([[Revelation 5:5]]), providing the ultimate example and basis for the saints' victory.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct cognate is the noun νίκη (níkē), `{{G3529}}`, meaning "victory" itself, which appears in [[1 John 5:4]] in conjunction with νικάω to emphasize the nature of the triumph. Other related concepts include:
* **Triumph:** While not a direct lexical synonym for νικάω, the concept of triumph (e.g., θριαμβεύω, `{{G2358}}`) is closely aligned, particularly in Paul's depiction of Christ's victory over hostile powers ([[Colossians 2:15]]).
* **Subdue/Conquer:** These English terms accurately capture the active sense of νικάω.
* **Perseverance/Endurance:** The act of overcoming often requires steadfastness (ὑπομονή, `{{G5281}}`) in the face of adversity, especially in the context of the "overcomer" in Revelation.
* **Faith:** As seen in 1 John, faith is the divinely appointed means by which believers νικάω the world.
* **Spiritual Warfare:** The concept of νικάω is fundamental to understanding the believer's engagement in spiritual conflict against sin, the flesh, and demonic forces.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of νικάω is profound, centering on the themes of divine sovereignty, Christ's accomplished work, and the believer's empowered participation in that victory.
Firstly, the ultimate victory belongs to God and His Christ. Christ is portrayed as the quintessential overcomer, having triumphed over sin, death, and the powers of darkness through His crucifixion and resurrection ([[John 16:33]]; [[Revelation 5:5]]). This foundational victory of Christ provides the basis and assurance for all subsequent victories achieved by believers.
Secondly, believers νικάω not by their own strength or merit, but by virtue of their union with Christ and the indwelling Holy Spirit. The victory is not a human achievement but a divine enablement, accessed through faith. This underscores the gracious nature of salvation and sanctification. The "overcoming" of the world, as described in 1 John, is a present reality for those born of God, demonstrating the transformative power of divine new birth.
Thirdly, νικάω highlights the ongoing spiritual battle that believers face in this present age. They are called to actively overcome evil with good ([[Romans 12:21]]), to resist the temptations of the world, and to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. This active overcoming is a mark of genuine discipleship and spiritual vitality.
Finally, the promises to "the one who overcomes" in Revelation provide a powerful eschatological hope. They assure believers that their faithfulness in the face of tribulation and persecution will be eternally rewarded. This future triumph is a culmination of the present spiritual victories and a participation in the glorious reign of Christ. Thus, νικάω encapsulates both the present reality of spiritual conflict and the future certainty of divine triumph.
### Summary
The Greek verb νικάω (nikáō), `{{G3528}}`, signifies the act of conquering, overcoming, or prevailing, stemming from the root word for "victory" (`{{G3529}}`). Its usage in the New Testament, particularly in the Johannine writings and Pauline epistles, reveals its profound spiritual and theological import. While it can denote literal conquest, its primary biblical application is to the spiritual realm, describing the believer's triumph over evil, the world, and sin. This victory is not self-achieved but is divinely enabled through faith in Jesus Christ and the power of the indwelling Spirit, building upon the foundational victory of Christ Himself. The recurring motif of "the one who overcomes" in Revelation underscores the eschatological promises and eternal rewards awaiting faithful believers who persevere in their spiritual journey. νικάω thus encapsulates the dynamic reality of spiritual warfare, the empowering grace of God, and the assured hope of ultimate triumph in Christ.
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