# 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: [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, G831, G1413, G1849, G1850, G2003, G2715, G5247