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."
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.
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.
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.
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