Here "bind" is a metaphor meaning to forbid something, and "release" is a metaphor meaning to allow something. Also, "in heaven" is a metonym that represents God himself. See how you translated similar phrases in [Matthew 16:19](../16/19.md). Alternate translation: "God in heaven will approve whenever you forbid or allow something on earth" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])