ἐπιτρέπω (epitrepō)

The verb epitrepō means to permit or allow, carrying the sense of granting leave rather than merely tolerating an event. Its root combines a prefix indicating direction with a base meaning "to turn," suggesting an active decision to yield authority or permission to another person. In the New Testament, it appears eighteen times, often in the Gospels and Acts, describing moments where human or divine authority is exercised to let something happen.

It is used when Jesus allows unclean spirits to enter a herd of pigs (Mark 5:13) or when Pilate suggests he has the power to release Jesus (John 19:10). Paul also uses it to explain that he permits women to speak in church only under certain conditions (1 Corinthians 14:34), and Peter notes that God permitted him to speak to the Gentiles (Acts 10:28). The word implies a conscious choice by the one granting permission, not just passive observation.

Translators typically render it as "permit," "allow," or "give leave." This distinguishes it from words meaning simply to endure or suffer. Here, the focus is on the authorized act of letting go or transferring control. The term highlights that permission is a deliberate act of will, often involving a shift in responsibility from the giver to the receiver.