← G1412 G1414 →

δυνάστης

dynástēs

G1413 noun

SILEX Entry

Definition

One possessing power, specifically a person who exercises significant authority, often as a ruler, potentate, or person of high status; in some contexts, one who has the capability to command or exert dominance. The primary sense involves the active possession and exercise of substantial social or political power, but can also refer to influential figures of authority in broader or metaphorical contexts.

Semantic Range

mighty ruler, powerful official, person of great authority, potentate, lord, influential leader, one possessing dominance, eminent person

Root / Etymology

Derived from the root δυνάμαι (to be able, to have power); δυνάστης is a noun form denoting one who has power or ability.

Historical & Contextual Notes

In classical Greek, δυνάστης was used for powerful leaders or rulers, particularly those with absolute or semi-absolute authority, such as monarchs or feudal lords. The term appears in Hellenistic literature for regional potentates and local governors with significant autonomy. In the Septuagint, it often translates Hebrew terms for rulers or nobles, sometimes for monarchs or persons of considerable influence, implying more than merely administrative authority. In the New Testament (e.g., Luke 1:52, 1 Timothy 6:15), it refers to potentates or great rulers, potentially with emphasis on the contrast between human and divine power. Standard English translations like "ruler," "potentate," or "person in authority" capture the main sense but can miss the nuance of immense or exceptional power backgrounded in the Greek word, which can imply extraordinary authority compared to other rulers. Notably, δυνάστης is distinct from terms like ἄρχων (one who rules or governs, with emphasis on office) and βασιλεύς (king), focusing more on the possession or wielding of power, regardless of formal title. In some contexts, could refer metaphorically to powerful or controlling influences.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from δύναμαι; a ruler or officer:--of great authority, mighty, potentate.

Root Family

δυνάστης (dynastēs) — to be powerful, to be able, to wield authority

Root δυνα- to be powerful, to be able, to wield authority

Word Forms

2 distinct forms

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2 Occurrences
G1413-02 δυνάστης dunastes N NOM M SG court official powerful ruler court official 2
G1413-01 δυνάστας dunastas N ACC M PL rulers power-wielding rulers power-wielding rulers 1

Occurrences in Scripture

3 occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 SIBI-P2
G1413-01 Luke 1:52 δυνάστας dunastas N ACC M PL rulers power-wielding rulers power-wielding rulers
G1413-02 Acts 8:27 δυνάστης dunastes N NOM M SG court official powerful ruler court official
G1413-02 1 Timothy 6:15 Δυνάστης dunastes N NOM M SG Sovereign powerful ruler powerful ruler
← G1412 Greek Lexicon G1414 →