περικρατής
perikratḗs
G4031 predicate adjective
SILEX Entry
Definition
Having power or control on all sides; possessing comprehensive authority or dominance, especially with the sense of effective mastery or managerial control over a matter or domain. The term denotes strength or supremacy that encompasses all relevant factors, resulting in commanding influence or ability to manage affairs.
Semantic Range
all-powerful, fully in control, master of a domain, possessing comprehensive authority, manager, coming into complete possession, prevailing on every side
Root / Etymology
From περί (peri, 'around, about') and κρατέω (krateō, 'to be strong, to rule') or κράτος (kratos, 'strength, power'). Formed as a compound adjective, signifying 'strong all around' or 'having strength on every side.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
περικρατής is a rare term, attested in later Greek, particularly in Hellenistic and Koine periods, usually describing individuals who are not just strong, but possess comprehensive authority or control—effectively a 'master' or one who manages affairs with secure domination. In the New Testament era, it is used in a figurative and sometimes literal sense, such as describing someone who successfully takes possession of or attains mastery over something. The use of the term is not common in classical literature or the Septuagint. English renderings such as 'master' or 'manager' may not fully convey the nuance of comprehensive, all-surrounding strength implied. The word is semantically distinct from terms like δυνάστης ('powerful one, ruler') or δεσπότης ('lord, master'), which focus more on position or legal authority, while περικρατής emphasizes the encompassing or effective strength leading to mastery.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from περί and κράτος; strong all around, i.e. a master (manager):--+ come by.
Root Family
περικρατής (perikratēs) — to be strong, to have power, to be master
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4031-01 |
περικρατεῖς | perikrateis | ADJ.P NOM M PL |
to get control | all-around masters | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4031-01 |
Acts 27:16 | περικρατεῖς | perikrateis | ADJ.P NOM M PL |
to get control | all-around masters |