The most common term for power in this literature is dynamis, although some authors (e.g., Hermas) use ischys and its cognates just as frequently. Both terms refer to the inherent or derived ability to perform an action. A third term, kratos, was used in the same sense, but occurs most commonly in doxologies. The right to exercise power is expressed by the word exousia, “authority.” The verbs dynamoō and endynamoō were regularly used to convey the notion of divine empowerment of individuals.