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G3528 · Greek · New Testament
νικάω
nikao
Verb
overcome, conquer, be victorious, prevail

Definition

To win a victory, defeat an opponent, or prevail in a contest. The noun nike (G3529, victory) is the related term. In Revelation nikao appears repeatedly as a present-tense call to perseverance: 'to the one who overcomes...' — framing the Christian life as a sustained struggle that ends in victory.

Usage & Theological Significance

Revelation's seven letters each promise a reward 'to the one who overcomes (nikao).' The implied model is Christ himself: John 16:33 declares 'I have overcome (nenikeka) the world' — a perfect tense indicating ongoing victory from a completed act. The Christian participates in this victory not by personal strength but by 'the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony' (Rev 12:11). 1 John 5:4 grounds the victory in faith: 'this is the victory (nike) that has overcome the world — our faith.'

Key Bible Verses

Revelation 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony.
John 16:33 Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
1 John 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.

Related Words

External Resources

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