### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb κωλύω (kōlýō), Strong's number `{{G2967}}`, carries the primary meaning "to estop," "to prevent," "to hinder," or "to forbid." Its etymological root is linked to the base of κολάζω (kolazō, `{{G2849}}`), which means "to punish" or "to chastise," suggesting an underlying notion of restraint or forceful prevention. The semantic range of κωλύω encompasses various forms of impediment, ranging from physical prevention to verbal prohibition. It implies an active intervention designed to stop an action, a person, or a process from proceeding. The word can denote a withholding, a keeping back, or an active obstruction.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
κωλύω appears frequently in the New Testament, revealing diverse applications of its core meaning:
* **Preventing Access to Jesus:** In the Synoptic Gospels, the disciples attempt to "forbid" or "hinder" children from coming to Jesus ([[Matthew 19:14]], [[Mark 10:14]], [[Luke 18:16]]). Jesus' sharp rebuke, "Do not hinder them," profoundly underscores the open and welcoming nature of the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that access to Him should never be obstructed.
* **Prohibiting Exorcism:** Similarly, in [[Luke 9:49]], John attempts to "forbid" a man from casting out demons because he was not part of their immediate group. Jesus' response, "Do not forbid him," teaches a vital lesson about the breadth of God's work and the danger of sectarianism.
* **John the Baptist's Hesitation:** John the Baptist "forbade" Jesus when He came to be baptized, recognizing his own unworthiness ([[Matthew 3:14]]). This instance highlights John's humility and Jesus' determination to fulfill all righteousness.
* **Divine Initiative and Human Resistance:** In [[Acts 10:47]], Peter rhetorically asks, "Can anyone forbid water...?" concerning the baptism of Cornelius and his household, who had received the Holy Spirit. This question powerfully affirms that no human prejudice or tradition can "hinder" God's sovereign work of salvation among the Gentiles.
* **Hindrance in Apostolic Ministry:** Paul frequently experienced being "hindered" in his missionary endeavors ([[Romans 15:22]], where he was often "prevented" from coming to Rome). This illustrates the practical obstacles faced by early evangelists, whether from human opposition or divine redirection.
* **The Holy Spirit's Guidance:** Intriguingly, the Holy Spirit Himself can "forbid" or "hinder" apostolic activity, as seen in [[Acts 16:6]], where the Spirit "forbade" Paul and Silas from preaching in Asia. This demonstrates the sovereign control and strategic guidance of the Spirit in missionary outreach.
* **Relational Barriers to Prayer:** In [[1 Peter 3:7]], husbands are warned that treating their wives without honor can "hinder" their prayers. This passage reveals a profound connection between interpersonal relationships and spiritual efficacy, showing how sin can impede communion with God.
* **False Teaching and Prohibitions:** Paul strongly condemns those who, in the last days, will "forbid" marriage and command abstinence from certain foods ([[1 Timothy 4:3]]). This highlights a characteristic of apostasy: the imposition of legalistic prohibitions that contradict God's good creation and His will.
* **Hindering the Gospel:** In [[1 Thessalonians 2:16]], Paul speaks of those who "hinder" the apostles from speaking to the Gentiles, preventing the message of salvation from reaching them. This points to active opposition to the spread of the gospel.
* **Regulating Spiritual Gifts:** Paul instructs the Corinthians not to "forbid" speaking in tongues ([[1 Corinthians 14:39]]), provided it is done in an orderly manner. This demonstrates the need for proper discernment and freedom within the exercise of spiritual gifts, avoiding unnecessary restrictions.
### Related Words & Concepts
κωλύω (kōlýō, `{{G2967}}`) is semantically related to other Greek words denoting obstruction or restraint. These include:
* ἐμποδίζω (empodizō, `{{G1775}}`), meaning "to impede" or "to trip up," as seen in [[Romans 15:22]] where Paul uses it to describe being "hindered."
* ἀποκωλύω (apokōlyō, `{{G612}}`), a stronger form meaning "to hinder completely" or "to prevent altogether," though less common.
* κλείω (kleiō, `{{G2808}}`), "to shut" or "to close," which can imply preventing access.
In the Hebrew Bible, concepts related to hindering or restraining are conveyed by words such as:
* מָנַע (mana', `{{H4513}}`), "to withhold," "to restrain," or "to keep back."
* עָצַר (atsar, `{{H6113}}`), "to restrain," "to shut up," or "to hold back."
Thematically, κωλύω engages with crucial biblical concepts such as divine sovereignty, human agency, spiritual warfare, the nature of false teaching, access to God and salvation, and the dynamics of interpersonal relationships within the community of faith.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of κωλύω is profound and multi-faceted. It often highlights the tension between God's divine will and human attempts to impede or resist it. The instances where Jesus explicitly commands "Do not hinder" (e.g., children coming to Him, exorcism) underscore the expansive and inclusive nature of God's Kingdom, where barriers to spiritual access are to be removed, not erected.
The question "Can anyone forbid water...?" in [[Acts 10:47]] serves as a powerful theological affirmation that God's redemptive work, once initiated by the Holy Spirit, cannot be legitimately obstructed by human prejudice, tradition, or religious exclusivity. This speaks to the unstoppable nature of God's saving purpose.
Conversely, the Holy Spirit's active "forbidding" in [[Acts 16:6]] demonstrates divine sovereignty and strategic guidance in missionary endeavors, reminding believers that even well-intentioned plans must submit to God's higher wisdom.
The condemnation of those who "forbid" marriage or certain foods in [[1 Timothy 4:3]] is a critical theological warning against legalism and asceticism that originates from demonic influence rather than divine truth. It teaches that true godliness embraces God's good creation and freedom in Christ, rather than imposing external, unbiblical restrictions.
Finally, the concept of prayer being "hindered" by marital discord ([[1 Peter 3:7]]) reveals the holistic nature of biblical spirituality, where relational integrity directly impacts one's communion with God. This emphasizes that sin in any area of life can impede spiritual blessings.
### Summary
The Greek verb κωλύω (kōlýō, `{{G2967}}`) signifies "to hinder," "to prevent," or "to forbid." Its usage across the New Testament illuminates critical theological truths. It highlights Jesus' unwavering commitment to open access to the Kingdom of God, rebuking those who would obstruct it. It powerfully affirms the unstoppable nature of God's redemptive work, particularly in breaking down barriers between Jew and Gentile. Furthermore, κωλύω reveals the Holy Spirit's sovereign guidance in ministry, warns against the dangers of legalistic false teaching, and underscores the impact of relational sin on one's spiritual life. Ultimately, the word serves as a reminder of God's proactive will and the various forces, both human and spiritual, that attempt to impede His purposes or the flourishing of His people.
TRV