# authority

## Definition:

The term “authority” usually refers to a position of influence, responsibility, or rule over another person.

* Kings and other governing rulers have authority over the people they are ruling.
* The word “authorities” can refer to people, governments, or organizations that have authority over others.
* The word “authorities” can also refer to spirit beings who have power over people who have not submitted themselves to God’s authority.
* Masters have authority over their servants or slaves. Parents have authority over their children.
* Governments have the authority or right to make laws that govern their citizens.

## Translation Suggestions:

* The term “authority” can also be translated as “control” or “right” or “qualifications.”
* Sometimes “authority” is used with the meaning of “power.”
* When “authorities” is used to refer to people or organizations who rule people, it could also be translated as “leaders” or “rulers” or “powers.”
* The phrase “by his own authority” could also be translated as “with his own right to lead” or “based on his own qualifications.”
* The expression, “under authority” could be translated as “responsible to obey” or “having to obey others’ commands.”

(See also: [dominion](../kt/dominion.md), [king](../other/king.md), [ruler](../other/ruler.md), [power](../kt/power.md))

## Bible References:

* [Colossians 2:10](rc://en/tn/help/col/02/10)
* [Esther 9:29](rc://en/tn/help/est/09/29)
* [Genesis 41:35](rc://en/tn/help/gen/41/35)
* [Jonah 3:6-7](rc://en/tn/help/jon/03/06)
* [Luke 12:5](rc://en/tn/help/luk/12/05)
* [Luke 20:1-2](rc://en/tn/help/luk/20/01)
* [Mark 1:22](rc://en/tn/help/mrk/01/22)
* [Matthew 8:9](rc://en/tn/help/mat/08/09)
* [Matthew 28:19](rc://en/tn/help/mat/28/19)
* [Titus 3:1](rc://en/tn/help/tit/03/01)

## Word Data:

* Strong’s: H8633, G08310, G14130, G18490, G18500, G20030, G27150, G52470
