The noun ἱκανότης denotes sufficiency, competence, or fitness for a purpose—having adequate ability or qualification. It can mean either a sufficient quantity or sufficient quality/capability. In 2 Corinthians 3:5, Paul denies that the apostles have competence "from themselves," asserting instead that "our sufficiency is from God." The word emphasizes adequacy or qualification for the apostolic ministry of the new covenant. Classical sources use it for fitness or adequacy in various contexts. Translations render it "sufficiency" (English), "suficiencia" (Spanish), "capacité" (French), capturing both the sense of adequacy and competence.