### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eáō**, represented by `{{G1439}}`, means **to let be, i.e. permit or leave alone**. It appears **15 times** across **13 unique verses** in the Bible. Its usage conveys concepts of suffering (permitting), leaving, committing, or letting something alone.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G1439}}` is used in several key contexts. It is used to express permission or allowance, as when Paul's disciples **suffered** him not to enter in unto the people [[Acts 19:30]]. It can mean to **leave** something behind, such as when soldiers on the morrow **left** the horsemen to go with Paul [[Acts 23:32]]. The word also describes God's divine allowance, as He **suffered** all nations to walk in their own ways in times past [[Acts 14:16]]. Another instance shows it being used to mean **let** alone, as in the advice to **let** the men **alone**, for if their work is of men, it will come to nought [[Acts 5:38]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of permitting or refraining:
* `{{G1410}}` **dýnamai** (to be able or possible): This word is often paired with `{{G1439}}` to define the limits of what is permitted. For example, God will not **suffer** believers to be tempted beyond what they **are able** to bear [[1 Corinthians 10:13]].
* `{{G868}}` **aphístēmi** (to remove... refrain, withdraw self): This term often precedes the action of `{{G1439}}`. In Acts, the counsel is to first **refrain** from the men and then to **let** them **alone** [[Acts 5:38]].
* `{{G2008}}` **epitimáō** (censure or admonish; by implication, forbid): This word acts as an opposite to `{{G1439}}`. Jesus did not **suffer** the devils to speak, but instead was **rebuking** them [[Luke 4:41]], showing a direct refusal of permission.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1439}}` is significant, highlighting the interplay between divine permission and human responsibility.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word is used to describe God's sovereign allowance. He **suffered** all nations to follow their own paths [[Acts 14:16]] and **suffers** believers to be tempted, but provides a way of escape, showing that His permission is tied to His provision [[1 Corinthians 10:13]].
* **Spiritual Discernment:** The failure to exercise authority is shown through this word. The church in Revelation is condemned because "thou sufferest that woman Jezebel... to teach" [[Revelation 2:20]]. Conversely, Jesus demonstrates authority by not **suffering** demons to speak [[Luke 4:41]].
* **Human Agency:** The term is used to show human decision-making and its consequences. A homeowner, if he had known, would not have **suffered** his house to be broken up [[Matthew 24:43]]. In another case, soldiers **let** a boat fall off into the sea, an act of deliberate choice [[Acts 27:32]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1439}}` is a versatile word that signifies more than simple permission. It encompasses divine allowance, human inaction or deliberate choice, and the exercise of spiritual authority. From God not **suffering** believers to be tempted beyond their ability [[1 Corinthians 10:13]] to a call to **let** others **alone** [[Acts 5:38]], the word illustrates how the act of permitting or leaving be is a critical element in biblical narratives and theological understanding.
TRV