### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term περικρατής (perikratḗs), Strong's number `{{G4031}}`, is a compound word derived from περί (peri), meaning "around" or "about," and κράτος (kratos), meaning "strength," "power," or "might." Etymologically, it conveys the sense of being "strong all around" or possessing "complete mastery." Its semantic range extends to encompass the idea of gaining full control, securing something effectively, or achieving a position of comprehensive dominance. The nuance is not merely about possessing strength, but about the successful application of that strength to overcome obstacles and establish firm possession or management. It implies an arduous effort to achieve control, particularly when faced with significant opposition or challenging circumstances.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term περικρατής (perikratḗs) appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Acts:
* **[[Acts 27:16]]**: "And running under the lee of a small island called Cauda, we were *scarcely able to get control* of the skiff."
In this context, Paul and his companions are caught in a violent storm at sea, described as a "hurricane wind" (v. 14). The ship is being battered, and the sailors are desperately trying to secure the small lifeboat (skiff) which was being towed behind the main vessel. The phrase "scarcely able to get control" (KJV: "we had much work to come by the boat") vividly portrays the extreme difficulty and immense struggle involved in mastering the skiff amidst the furious waves. This solitary occurrence of περικρατής emphasizes the formidable challenge of achieving mastery or control over a situation when confronted by overwhelming natural forces. It highlights human limitations even when exerting maximum effort.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of περικρατής (perikratḗs) is illuminated by its relationship to several other Greek terms:
* **κράτος (kratos) `{{G2904}}`**: The root word, signifying strength, power, dominion, or might. Perikratḗs builds upon this by adding the dimension of "all-around" or "complete" application of power.
* **κρατέω (krateō) `{{G2902}}`**: The verbal form of κράτος, meaning "to be strong," "to grasp," "to hold fast," "to seize," or "to master." The action described in [[Acts 27:16]]—"to get control of"—is precisely what περικρατής describes the *difficulty* of achieving.
* **δύναμις (dynamis) `{{G1411}}`**: Refers to inherent power, ability, or miraculous power. While related to power, περικρατής focuses more on the *act* or *state* of securing control through that power.
* **ἐξουσία (exousia) `{{G1849}}`**: Denotes authority, right, or delegated power. Perikratḗs can be a means by which one establishes or maintains exousia over a particular domain or object.
* **Concepts**: Mastery, control, overcoming, securing, possession, dominance, intense struggle, human limitation in the face of overwhelming forces.
### Theological Significance
While περικρατής (perikratḗs) appears in a seemingly secular context describing a maritime struggle, its inherent meaning carries profound theological implications. The human struggle to be "scarcely able to get control" over the skiff in the storm serves as a powerful metaphor for human limitation and vulnerability in the face of overwhelming forces. This stands in stark contrast to God's absolute and effortless **κράτος** (kratos) and **ἐξουσία** (exousia) over all creation.
The passage implicitly highlights:
1. **Human Frailty**: Even with skill and concerted effort, humans are often "scarcely able" to master the forces of nature or challenging circumstances. This underscores our dependence on a higher power.
2. **Divine Sovereignty**: What humans struggle *perikratḗs* to achieve, God accomplishes with a word. The Lord is the one who truly has *perikratḗs* over the winds and waves, as demonstrated by Christ's calming of the storm (e.g., [[Mark 4:39]], [[Psalm 89:9]]).
3. **Spiritual Analogy**: The physical storm and the struggle for control can be seen as an analogy for spiritual battles. Believers often face "storms" of temptation, suffering, or doubt where they feel "scarcely able to get control" over their circumstances or inner struggles. This points to the necessity of divine grace and empowering strength for spiritual victory, reminding us that our ultimate mastery comes not from our own strength but from God's enabling power.
### Summary
The Greek word περικρατής (perikratḗs), `{{G4031}}`, signifies "strong all around" or "having complete mastery and control," derived from its components "around" (περί) and "strength" (κράτος). Its singular occurrence in the New Testament, [[Acts 27:16]], vividly portrays the desperate and arduous struggle of sailors to "scarcely get control" of a skiff during a violent storm. This usage underscores the immense difficulty of achieving mastery in the face of overwhelming circumstances, highlighting human limitations. Theologically, περικρατής serves as a powerful contrast to God's absolute and effortless sovereignty over all creation, reminding believers of their dependence on divine strength and grace in navigating the "storms" of life, both physical and spiritual.
TRV