Strong's Lexicon akratés: Without self-control, lacking self-discipline Original Word: ἀκρατής Word Origin: Derived from the Greek prefix "a-" (meaning "without") and "kratos" (meaning "strength" or "power"). Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for "akratés," the concept of lacking self-control can be related to Hebrew terms that describe folly or lack of wisdom, such as "kesil" (כְּסִיל), often translated as "fool" in the Old Testament. Usage: The term "akratés" is used to describe a person who is unable to exercise self-control or restraint, particularly in moral or ethical contexts. It conveys a sense of being overpowered by one's desires or impulses, leading to behavior that is not aligned with godly principles. Cultural and Historical Background: In the Greco-Roman world, self-control (enkrateia) was highly valued as a virtue, especially among philosophers like the Stoics, who emphasized mastery over one's passions. The lack of self-control, therefore, was seen as a significant moral failing. In the context of early Christianity, self-control was considered a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23), and its absence was indicative of a life not fully surrendered to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. HELPS Word-studies Cognate: 193 akratḗs (an adjective, derived from 1 /A "without" and 2904 /krátos, "prevailing power") – properly, in continent, i.e. lacking self-control (self-discipline, self-restraint; used only in 2 Tim 3:3). See 192 (akrasia). [193 (akratḗs) is the opposite (antonym) of 1468 /egkratḗs, "enabled from within" (see there).] NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom alpha (as a neg. prefix) and kratos Definition powerless, impotent NASB Translation without self-control (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 193: ἀκρατήςἀκρατής, (ές, genitive (έος, (οῦς, (κράτος), without self-control, intemperate: 2 Timothy 3:3. (Frequently in secular writings from Plato and Xenophon down.) Strong's Exhaustive Concordance Without self-controlFrom a (as a negative particle) and kratos; powerless, i.e. Without self-control -- incontinent. see GREEK a see GREEK kratos Forms and Transliterations ακρατεις ακρατείς ἀκρατεῖς akrateis akrateîsLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |