third person singular present indicative of a compound of ἐκ and εἰμί; so also neuter present participle of the same (with or without some form of εἰμί expressed); impersonally, it is right (through the figurative idea of being out in public):--be lawful, let, X may(-est).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **éxesti**, represented by `{{G1832}}`, is an impersonal verb that primarily means **it is right** or **it is lawful**. It appears 44 times across 30 unique verses in the Bible. The term is consistently used to question or state the permissibility of an action according to a specific religious, civil, or moral code, often appearing in the form of a direct question: "Is it lawful...?"
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G1832}}` is central to several key disputes. It is frequently used in conflicts regarding Sabbath observance, such as whether it is **lawful** to heal [[Matthew 12:10]] or for the disciples to do what was considered "not **lawful**" on the Sabbath [[Matthew 12:2]]. The question of civil obedience is another major context, seen when the Pharisees ask if it is **lawful** to give tribute to Caesar [[Mark 12:14]]. It also frames moral dilemmas, including questions about divorce [[Mark 10:2]] and John the Baptist's declaration to Herod that it was "not **lawful**" for him to have his brother's wife [[Matthew 14:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the scope of what is considered **lawful**:
* `{{G4160}}` **poiéō** (to make or do): This word often specifies the action being evaluated, as in the question of what is not **lawful** "to do" on the Sabbath [[Luke 6:2]].
* `{{G1325}}` **dídōmi** (to give): This verb is linked to questions of civil and religious duty, such as whether it is **lawful** "to give" tribute to Caesar [[Matthew 22:17]].
* `{{G4851}}` **symphérō** (be expedient): Paul uses this to introduce a higher principle than mere legality, stating that although all things are **lawful** for him, not all things are **expedient** [[1 Corinthians 6:12]].
* `{{G15}}` **agathopoiéō** (to be a well-doer): Jesus reframes the Sabbath debate by asking if it is **lawful** "to do good" rather than to simply follow prescriptive rules [[Mark 3:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1832}}` is significant, highlighting the tension between law and grace.
* **The Spirit of the Law:** The term is a catalyst in discussions that prioritize compassion over rigid legalism. Jesus answers the question of what is **lawful** on the Sabbath by stating it is **lawful** to do well [[Matthew 12:12]], shifting the focus from prohibition to positive action.
* **Christian Liberty and Responsibility:** Paul's use of `{{G1832}}` is foundational to the concept of Christian freedom. He affirms that "all things are **lawful**" but immediately qualifies this liberty with the greater need for what is **expedient** `{{G4851}}` and what will **edify** `{{G3618}}` the community [[1 Corinthians 10:23]].
* **Defining Authority:** Questions about what is **lawful** are used to challenge and define the jurisdictions of human and divine authority. This is seen when the Jews acknowledge their lack of legal authority to execute Jesus [[John 18:31]] and when Paul asserts his rights as a Roman citizen [[Acts 22:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1832}}` is more than a simple term for legality. It serves as a crucial interrogative that frames many of the central ethical and theological debates in the New Testament. From the observance of the Sabbath to the nature of Christian freedom, **éxesti** forces a deeper consideration of whether an action is merely permissible by law or if it is truly good, edifying, and expedient.
TRV