### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **perikratḗs**, represented by `{{G4031}}`, means to be **strong all around** or a **master (manager)**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This rare term conveys the sense of gaining control or mastery over something, often with great effort, as translated in its single use, "to **come by**."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of `{{G4031}}` is in the narrative of a storm at sea in [[Acts 27:16]]. In this verse, the sailors are struggling to secure the ship's small boat amid turbulent conditions. The text states they "had much work to **come by** the boat," illustrating a situation where gaining control required immense strength and effort against the elements. This usage highlights the "strong all around" aspect of its definition, as they needed to master the situation completely.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the context of [[Acts 27:16]] help clarify the scene:
* `{{G2480}}` **ischýō**: Meaning **to have (or exercise) force**, this word is used in the same verse to convey that the sailors "had much work" in their struggle. It emphasizes the physical strength and effort required to become **perikratḗs** (master) of the boat.
* `{{G5295}}` **hypotréchō**: This word means **to run under, i.e. (specially), to sail past**. It establishes the specific nautical action of the ship passing by the island of Clauda, setting the stage for the struggle.
* `{{G2564}}` **kaléō**: Defined as **to "call"**, this word is used to identify the location of the event, an island "which is **called** Clauda." It grounds the act of becoming master over the boat in a specific, named place.
### Theological Significance
While `{{G4031}}` itself has a limited narrative use, the concepts of strength and control it implies are echoed in broader theological themes through related words.
* **Spiritual Strength:** The related word **ischýō** `{{G2480}}` is used to describe spiritual ability, such as when Paul states, "I **can do** all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" [[Philippians 4:13]]. This elevates the idea of physical mastery to a spiritual empowerment through faith.
* **Divine Calling:** The word **kaléō** `{{G2564}}` is used theologically to describe God's initiative in salvation. Believers are those whom God has **called** "out of darkness into his marvellous light" [[1 Peter 2:9]] and who are **called** "the children of God" [[Matthew 5:9]].
* **Foundation of Faith:** The concept of strength is also applied to spiritual steadfastness. In [[Luke 6:48]], a house built on a rock **could** `{{G2480}}` not be shaken, illustrating how a firm foundation in Christ provides the strength to withstand life's storms.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4031}}` **perikratḗs** is a highly specific term for becoming master of something or gaining control through great strength. Its single use in [[Acts 27:16]] vividly portrays a physical struggle against the elements. While not a major theological term on its own, its core idea of exercising force to prevail connects to broader scriptural concepts of spiritual strength, divine calling, and the steadfastness that comes from a firm foundation in faith.
TRV