The Greek term denotes sympathetic understanding, forbearance, or allowance—fellow-feeling that leads to granting permission or making concessions. Classical usage speaks of pardoning, excusing, or judging leniently. Paul uses it in discussing marriage, clarifying that what he says about married couples temporarily abstaining for prayer is spoken 'by way of concession, not as command.' He distinguishes pastoral allowance from apostolic command, giving freedom rather than imposing obligation. The term suggests Paul's sensitivity to human weakness and varied circumstances, moderating apostolic authority with pastoral wisdom.