ἀκρατής (akratēs)
akratēs
intemperate
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word akratēs describes a state of being without power or control, often translated as intemperate or lacking self-restraint. In moral contexts, it refers to someone who is incontinent or inclined to excess, unable to govern their own impulses. This term appears only once in the New Testament, specifically in Paul’s description of the difficult times that will characterize the last days.
Its meaning derives from a negative prefix combined with a root related to strength or power, literally suggesting a condition of being powerless over oneself. While it can denote physical impotence, the usage in 2 Timothy 3:3 focuses on ethical failure, highlighting a deficiency in self-discipline rather than just a lack of willpower. Translators typically render this as "intemperate" to capture the sense of uncontrolled behavior that defines this particular vice.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word akratēs describes a state where personal impulses override reason and will. It points to a lack of self-restraint that can fracture relationships and hinder spiritual growth. In 2 Timothy 3:3, Paul lists this trait among the signs of difficult times, showing how unchecked behavior affects our community.
Recognising this tendency helps us see where we need grace. It is not about being perfect but about acknowledging our limits. When we feel overwhelmed by urges or reactions, we can turn to God for strength. This awareness invites us to seek the Holy Spirit’s help in developing patience and gentleness.
Our faith calls us to live with discipline, yet we often fall short. The promise is that God provides the power to govern our hearts. By relying on His guidance, we can move from being controlled by impulses to living with freedom and peace.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- without self-control,1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀκρατεῖς,1×
Key Verses
-
II Timothy 3:3
without natural affection, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, not lovers of good,
This occurrence places akratēs in a list of social sins, showing it as a relational failure that damages community bonds.