### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nikáō**, represented by `{{G3528}}`, means **to subdue, conquer, overcome, prevail, or get the victory**. It appears 29 times across 24 unique verses in the Bible, establishing it as a key term for understanding spiritual conflict and triumph. Its meaning is applied both literally and figuratively, from prevailing in judgment to conquering evil and the world itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3528}}` is used to describe the definitive victory of Christ and the subsequent victory available to believers. Jesus declares, "I have **overcome** the world" [[John 16:33]], setting the precedent for believers. Consequently, the apostle John encourages believers that they have **overcome** because "greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world" [[1 John 4:4]]. This theme is prominent in Revelation, where a reward is repeatedly promised "To him that **overcometh**" [[Revelation 2:7]]. The means of this victory are made clear: "they **overcame** him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony" [[Revelation 12:11]]. The term also describes the actions of antagonistic forces, as the beast is given power to make war with the saints and to **overcome** them [[Revelation 13:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller context for the concept of overcoming:
* `{{G3529}}` **níkē** (victory): This word is the root of nikáō and refers to the conquest itself. It is used to define the mechanism of the believer's triumph: "this is the **victory** that overcometh the world, even our faith" [[1 John 5:4]].
* `{{G2816}}` **klēronoméō** (be heir, (obtain by) inherit(-ance)): Overcoming is directly linked to reward, as seen in the promise, "He that overcometh shall **inherit** all things" [[Revelation 21:7]].
* `{{G4100}}` **pisteúō** (to have faith): This is the essential condition for victory. The question is asked, "Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that **believeth** that Jesus is the Son of God?" [[1 John 5:5]].
* `{{G4170}}` **poleméō** (fight, (make) war): This term often establishes the context of conflict in which victory is achieved. The Lamb will **overcome** those who **make war** against him [[Revelation 17:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3528}}` is significant and multifaceted:
* **Christ's Foundational Victory:** Christ is presented as the ultimate victor. As the Lion of the tribe of Juda, he has **prevailed** to open the scroll [[Revelation 5:5]], and as the Lamb, he will **overcome** all opposition [[Revelation 17:14]].
* **Victory Through Faith:** The believer's ability to **overcome** is not based on personal strength but is a direct result of being "born of God" [[1 John 5:4]]. This victory is actualized through faith in Jesus Christ.
* **Eschatological Promise:** Overcoming is a central condition for receiving future blessings, including authority over nations [[Revelation 2:26]], a place on Christ's throne [[Revelation 3:21]], and the inheritance of all things as a son of God [[Revelation 21:7]].
* **Ethical Imperative:** The concept is also a present-day command for Christian conduct. Believers are instructed not to be **overcome** by evil, but to actively **overcome** evil with good [[Romans 12:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3528}}` is a powerful word that frames the Christian life as a spiritual battle with a guaranteed outcome. It moves from Christ's completed work of having **overcome** the world to the believer's ongoing call to **overcome** through faith. This victory is not merely an escape from tribulation but a triumph that results in eternal inheritance and fellowship with God.
TRV