### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epitrépō**, represented by `{{G2010}}`, means to turn over or transfer, signifying allowance. It is translated as to "permit," "suffer," "let," or to "give leave, liberty, license." It appears 22 times across 18 unique verses, establishing its role in contexts of authority and permission.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G2010}}` consistently appears in situations involving a grant of permission from a higher authority. A Roman centurion gave Paul **liberty** `{{G2010}}` to see his friends [[Acts 27:3]], and later gave him **licence** `{{G2010}}` to address a crowd [[Acts 21:40]]. When Joseph of Arimathaea wished to take the body of Jesus, Pilate **gave him leave** `{{G2010}}` [[John 19:38]]. The word is also used for requests made to Jesus, such as when a disciple asked, "**suffer** `{{G2010}}` me first to go and bury my father" [[Matthew 8:21]]. Conversely, it is used to denote restriction, as when Paul writes, "I **suffer** `{{G2010}}` not a woman to teach" [[1 Timothy 2:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of what is or is not permitted by `{{G2010}}`:
* `{{G5293}}` **hypotássō** (to subordinate; reflexively, to obey): This is presented as the required alternative to an action that is not permitted. Women are to be under obedience, as it is not **permitted** `{{G2010}}` for them to speak in church [[1 Corinthians 14:34]].
* `{{G630}}` **apolýō** (to free fully, i.e. (literally) relieve, release, dismiss... or (specially) divorce): Moses **suffered** `{{G2010}}` the Israelites to put away their wives, an allowance for a specific action [[Matthew 19:8]].
* `{{G190}}` **akolouthéō** (to be in the same way with, i.e. to accompany (specially, as a disciple)): A man expresses his desire to follow Jesus, but first asks for permission (**let** `{{G2010}}` me) to attend to a family matter [[Luke 9:61]].
* `{{G831}}` **authentéō** (to act of oneself, i.e. (figuratively) dominate): This action is explicitly forbidden, as Paul does not **suffer** `{{G2010}}` a woman to usurp authority over the man [[1 Timothy 2:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2010}}` is significant, highlighting principles of authority and submission.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** The word underscores that all human actions are ultimately subject to God's will. Paul makes his plans conditional, stating he will visit "if the Lord **permit**" [[1 Corinthians 16:7]] and that certain actions will be done "if God **permit**" [[Hebrews 6:3]].
* **Concession to Human Weakness:** `{{G2010}}` is used to describe an allowance that is not part of God's perfect will. Jesus explains that Moses **suffered** them to divorce their wives specifically "because of the hardness of your hearts" [[Matthew 19:8]].
* **Ecclesiastical Order:** The term is used to set boundaries for conduct within the church. It establishes that some actions are not **permitted** `{{G2010}}` in order to maintain a structure of obedience and silence [[1 Corinthians 14:34]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2010}}` is a crucial term for understanding biblical concepts of authority. It is not a word of universal freedom, but rather one of delegated or granted liberty that operates within a clear structure. Whether it is a Roman official giving license, Jesus suffering a request, or an apostle submitting plans to the will of God, **epitrépō** consistently shows that permission is something to be given by a recognized authority.
TRV