κωλύω

I prevent, hinder

Definition

The verb κωλύω primarily means 'to hinder, prevent, or forbid' someone from doing something. It often describes actively stopping an action or creating an obstacle, as when the disciples tried to prevent people from bringing children to Jesus (Mark 10:14) or when they tried to stop someone casting out demons in Jesus' name (Mark 9:38). In some contexts, it carries the sense of 'withholding' or 'debaring' access, such as the lawyers 'hindering' people from entering the kingdom in Luke 11:52. The action prevented is typically expressed with an infinitive verb.

Biblical Usage

Κωλύω is used 23 times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels, Acts, and the epistles. In the Gospels, it frequently occurs in narratives where someone attempts to restrict or forbid an action related to Jesus's ministry, such as bringing children (Matthew 19:14, Mark 10:14) or an exorcist not part of the disciple group (Mark 9:38-39, Luke 9:49-50). In Acts, it describes attempts to stop the spread of the gospel or the work of the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:36, 10:47, 11:17). Paul uses it to discuss not hindering the work of God (1 Corinthians 14:39) or marriage (1 Corinthians 7:17).

Etymology

The word κωλύω is a primary verb in ancient Greek. Its root is uncertain but is likely connected to the idea of 'lopping' or 'cutting off,' which evolved into the sense of 'hindering' or 'preventing.' It is related to the noun κώλυμα, meaning 'a hindrance.' The core meaning of creating an impediment or barrier remained consistent from classical through Koine Greek.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it often highlights conflicts between human restrictions and God's inclusive will. Jesus's command 'Do not hinder them' (Matthew 19:14, Mark 10:14) underscores that access to him and the kingdom should not be barred by human tradition or prejudice. In Acts, the Holy Spirit's work cannot be 'hindered' by human reluctance (Acts 10:47), emphasizing divine sovereignty in salvation. Understanding κωλύω enriches reading by revealing where human obstruction clashes with God's purpose.

In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of 'hindering' had social and legal dimensions, such as preventing someone from a rightful action or access. Jesus's use of the word subverts cultural norms where children, outsiders, or those deemed unworthy were often socially 'hindered' from approaching a teacher or figure of authority. His rejection of such hindrance was a radical affirmation of inclusive grace.

ἐγκόπτω (egkoptō, G1465) — to cut into, impede, with a stronger sense of 'hindering progress' like an obstacle in a road; κωλύω is more general prevention. διακωλύω (diakōlyō, G1254) — to hinder thoroughly or prevent entirely; an intensive form of κωλύω.

Word Details

Scripture References