ἀκωλύτως (akōlutōs)
akōlutōs
freely
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adverb akōlutōs describes an action performed without obstruction or restriction. Literally meaning "unhindered," it conveys a sense of freedom from external barriers that might otherwise prevent something from happening. In the New Testament, this word appears only once, in Acts 28:31, where Paul is described as welcoming visitors and proclaiming the kingdom of God.
Lexical sources note that this term was common in legal documents to indicate that a right or action was not impeded by law or authority. Here, it highlights the unique situation of Paul’s house arrest in Rome: although he was chained to a soldier, his ministry proceeded without hindrance. The word emphasizes that no external force stopped him from teaching and witnessing.
Its etymology combines a negative prefix with a root meaning "to hinder" or "to stop." This construction creates a clear image of an open path. Translators typically render it as "freely" or "without hindrance," capturing the idea that Paul’s message spread despite his physical confinement. The word serves as a testament to the resilience of the gospel message.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When life feels confined by circumstances beyond our control, this word offers a quiet reassurance. It describes an action that moves forward without obstruction, even when physical barriers are present. In Acts 28:31, Paul is under house arrest, yet his ministry flows freely. The text tells us he welcomed all who came to him, preaching the Kingdom of God with boldness and without hindrance.
This suggests that our external conditions do not always dictate our spiritual impact. While we may face restrictions in our daily lives, the message of Christ can still reach those around us. It invites us to look for open doors within our current situations, trusting that our witness is not limited by our immediate environment.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- unhinderedly.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀκωλύτως.¶1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 28:31
preaching God’s Kingdom and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness, without hindrance.
This verse highlights how Paul’s physical confinement did not stop his bold proclamation of the Gospel to all who visited him.