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G244 · Greek · New Testament
ἀλλοτριεπίσκοπος
allotriepískopos
Noun, masculine
Meddler in other men's affairs / Busybody

Definition

The Greek word allotriepískopos (ἀλλοτριεπίσκοπος) is a compound of allotrios (belonging to another) and episkopos (overseer). It refers to one who meddlesome concerns himself with the affairs of others — a busybody who overseers what is not his business.

Usage & Theological Significance

This rare compound word appears once in 1 Peter 4:15 alongside murderer, thief, and evildoer — remarkable company that highlights how seriously Peter views unauthorized interference in others' lives. The Christian is called to suffer, if suffer they must, as a Christian rather than as a meddler. There is a counterfeit 'oversight' that masquerades as concern but is actually presumption — bypassing the spiritual authority structures God has established. True Christian accountability is invited, not forced; it is humble, not intrusive. The believer is to mind their own calling before God.

Key Bible Verses

1 Peter 4:15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.
1 Thessalonians 4:11 Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you.
2 Thessalonians 3:11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies.
1 Timothy 5:13 Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also busybodies who talk nonsense.
Proverbs 26:17 Like one who grabs a stray dog by the ears is someone who rushes into a quarrel not their own.

Related Words

External Resources

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