☀️
← Back to Lexicon
H3201 · Hebrew · Old Testament
יָכֹל
Yakol
Verb
To Be Able, Prevail, Endure

Definition

The Hebrew verb yakol means to be able, have power, prevail, or endure. It occurs approximately 193 times in the Old Testament and expresses capacity, capability, or the power to accomplish something. It is frequently used with other verbs to indicate whether someone can or cannot perform a given action.

Usage & Theological Significance

Yakol highlights the contrast between human limitation and divine omnipotence. Humans frequently find they are "not able" to do what God requires on their own strength, while God is always able to accomplish His purposes. The word appears in crucial moments of faith and doubt — when the spies declared they could not take the Promised Land (Numbers 13:31), when Jacob wrestled and prevailed (Genesis 32:28), and in contexts where God demonstrates that nothing is too hard for Him.

Key Bible Verses

Genesis 32:28 Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.
Numbers 13:31 We can't attack those people; they are stronger than we are.
Jeremiah 32:27 I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for Me?
Numbers 14:16 The LORD was not able to bring these people into the land he promised them.
Genesis 13:16 If anyone could count the dust of the earth, then your offspring could be counted.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️