### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **despótēs**, represented by `{{G1203}}`, denotes an **absolute ruler**. It appears **10 times** in **10 unique verses**. This term conveys supreme and unquestionable authority, used in scripture to describe both human **masters** in relation to servants and the ultimate sovereignty of God as **Lord**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G1203}}` defines relationships of authority. In a social context, it refers to human **masters**, to whom servants are to be subject with all fear [[1 Peter 2:18]] and count as worthy of all honour [[1 Timothy 6:1]]. The term is elevated to describe God as the absolute **Lord** who made heaven, earth, and the sea [[Acts 4:24]]. This divine authority is also invoked in cries for justice, addressing the **Lord** as holy and true, the one who will judge and avenge [[Revelation 6:10]]. It is specifically used for the **Lord** who "bought" believers, establishing his authority through redemption [[2 Peter 2:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of absolute authority and submission:
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (servant): As the direct counterpart to **despótēs**, this word signifies a slave or one in subjection. It is used to describe those who are "under the yoke" of their **masters** [[1 Timothy 6:1]] and is the title Simeon uses for himself in relation to the **Lord** `{{G1203}}` [[Luke 2:29]].
* `{{G5293}}` **hypotássō** (be subject): This verb describes the proper response to a **despótēs**, meaning to subordinate or obey. Servants are instructed to be **subject** to their masters [[1 Peter 2:18]] and are exhorted to be **obedient** to them [[Titus 2:9]].
* `{{G720}}` **arnéomai** (deny): This term signifies the rejection of absolute authority. It is used to describe false teachers who bring in heresies by **denying** the **Lord** `{{G1203}}` that bought them [[2 Peter 2:1]], and ungodly men who are **denying** the only **Lord** God [[Jude 1:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1203}}` is centered on God's absolute and rightful authority over all things.
* **Sovereign Creator:** The word establishes God as the supreme **Lord** and maker of "heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is" [[Acts 4:24]]. This authority is absolute and based on His role as creator.
* **Redemptive Lordship:** The authority of `{{G1203}}` extends to Christ, who is described as the **Lord** "that bought them" [[2 Peter 2:1]]. This ownership establishes a master-servant relationship founded on redemption, and to deny this Lord is to face condemnation [[Jude 1:4]].
* **The Believer's Purpose:** A believer who purges himself becomes a "vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the **master's** use, and prepared unto every good work" [[2 Timothy 2:21]]. This highlights that a believer's purpose is found in service to their absolute **master**.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1203}}` **despótēs** is a powerful term that defines a relationship of absolute authority and submission. While it appears in the context of human social structures, its most profound use is theological, portraying God as the sovereign Creator and Christ as the redemptive **Lord** and **Master**. The word underscores the believer's position of service and obedience to the one who both made and bought them.
TRV