[Greek] ἀδυνατέω (adynateō), [Latin] impossibilis: it is impossible; Mt.17:20, Lk.1:37
Annunciation: painting by Fabrizio Boschi
Background information:
Greek Hellenism: This term means to lack strength, to be unable to do, to be impossible (things), and not to be able. Plato’s Republic 366d states “No one else is willingly just, but that is from a lack of manly spirit or from old age or some other weakness, that man dispraise justice, lacking the power to practice it.” Xenophon’s Memorabilia 1.2.23 states “How then can it be impossible for one who was prudent to lose his prudence, for one who was capable of just action to become incapable?” Herodotus’ The Histories 9.60 states “But if, as may be, anything that has befallen you which makes it impossible for you to aid us, do us the service of sending us your archers.”
Old Testament: This term, related to several Hebrew terms, contains a variety of meanings. Such meanings include to constrain, to cut off, to fortify, to enclose to subdue, to bow down, to stumble, to falter, to make weak, to kill, and to put to death.
And now nothing which they purpose to do will be impossible for them (Gen.11:6). All these were cities fortified with high walls (Deu.3:5). For the impenetrable forest has come down (Zec.11:2). Alas, my daughter. You have brought me very low (Jdg.11:35). But all the rest of the people kneeled to drink water (Jdg.7:6). They stumble and perish before You (Job 4:4). And that no purpose of yours can be hindered (Job 42:4). And many among them shall stumble and fall (Isa.8:15). When one of your fellow countrymen is reduced to poverty and is unable to hold out beside you (Lev.25:35).
New Testament: This term means it is impossible. At the annunciation, Mary, through the Holy Spirit, becomes with child. This form of conception transcends the normal process of natural procreation. Mary acknowledges her acceptance and power of God that this would come to be. The disciples were unable to remove the demons (from the child) due to their lack of faith. Jesus likens faith to a small mustard seed which can grow into a large tree. A little faith, which can move mountains, can produce great fruits (results).
Scripture:
“He said to them, ‘Because of your little faith. Amen, I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” Mt.17:20
The disciple, lacking faith, could not remove the demon from the boy. Faith is like a mustard seed which can reap great results.
“For nothing will be impossible for God.” Lk.1:37
Mary shows complete faith and trust in the Lord. Mary is accepting of the Holy Spirit coming over her to bear a Son.
Conclusion:
Dynamic, dynamite, impossible, impossibility
Plato and Xenophon both speak of this term regarding the character of the person. Power becomes a cosmic principle. This cosmic principle is equated with deity.
I was surprised by the many meanings (uses) of this term in the Old Testament. The more nuanced examples include fortifying oneself (making others weaker), making one weak and faltering (unable to accomplish anything), and making one kneel (being unable). In Job 42:2 Job interestingly makes a statement somewhat similar to Mary’s statement. Both Job and Mary recognize that God can do all things. Job was a suffering person. Mary was a simple trusting person.
In the New Testament, it was impossible for the disciples to remove the demon from the boy. The disciples had no faith. Even a small amount of faith can reap great rewards. Mary was conceived in a seemingly impossible way, according to human standards. Mary’s complete faith and trust allows Mary to recognize that nothing is impossible for God. It is important to note the words “Amen, I say to you..” These words indicate that an important theological statement (declaration) of Jesus will immediately follow.
It is impossible to say to how important His words are!
Update: Good Friday 2020:Just before nearing death on the cross, Jesus saw His mother and the disciple. He said to His mother, ‘Woman, behold, your son.’ Then He said to the disciple, ‘Behold your mother.’ (Jn.19:26-27). For all of you who have lost loved ones during this pandemic, talk or pray to Mary. She knows what it’s like to lose a loved one. She more than ever understands your impossible situation!