### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **haimorrhéō**, represented by `{{G131}}`, is derived from terms for blood and to flow, and it specifically means **to flow blood** or **have a hæmorrhage**. It is a highly specific term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G131}}` is found in Matthew's gospel, describing the condition of a **woman** `{{G1135}}` who had been "diseased with an **issue of blood**" for **twelve years** [[Matthew 9:20]]. The term sets the stage for a narrative of profound desperation and faith. In this account, the woman **came** `{{G4334}}` **behind** `{{G3693}}` Jesus specifically to **touch** `{{G680}}` the **hem** `{{G2899}}` of his **garment** `{{G2440}}`, believing this simple act could heal her long-standing ailment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the passage illuminate the scene's significance:
* `{{G1135}}` **gynḗ** (a woman; specially, a wife): The subject of the miracle is identified as a **woman** [[Matthew 9:20]]. This same word is used when instructing husbands to love their **wives** [[Ephesians 5:25]].
* `{{G4334}}` **prosérchomai** (to approach, i.e. (literally) come near, visit, or (figuratively) worship, assent to): This word describes the woman’s deliberate act to **come** to Jesus [[Matthew 9:20]]. It carries a deeper meaning of drawing near in faith, as seen in the encouragement for believers to **draw near** with a true heart [[Hebrews 10:22]].
* `{{G680}}` **háptomai** (to attach oneself to, i.e. to touch): The woman’s goal was to **touch** Jesus's garment [[Matthew 9:20]]. This word signifies a connection that can bring healing, as when Jesus **touched** a man's eyes to restore sight [[Matthew 20:34]].
* `{{G2899}}` **kráspedon** (a margin, i.e. (specially), a fringe or tassel): This specifies the exact part of the garment the woman sought, the **hem** [[Matthew 9:20]]. Its significance is reinforced in other accounts where people were made whole by touching the **border** of His garment [[Mark 6:56]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G131}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
* **Faith in the Midst of Suffering:** The term `{{G131}}` defines a state of chronic suffering lasting **twelve** `{{G1427}}` **years** `{{G2094}}`. The woman's response is not passive resignation but an active approach to Jesus, demonstrating a faith that even a minimal connection is sufficient for healing [[Matthew 9:20]].
* **The Power of Approach:** The act of coming to Jesus, described by **prosérchomai** `{{G4334}}`, is a central theme. This physical act mirrors a spiritual principle: he that **cometh** to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him [[Hebrews 11:6]].
* **Healing Through a Touch:** The act of touching, **háptomai** `{{G680}}`, is portrayed as a conduit for divine power. This is seen not only in this miracle but also when the whole multitude sought to **touch** him, "for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all" [[Luke 6:19]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G131}}` **haimorrhéō** appears only once, its context is theologically rich. It defines a condition of extreme and prolonged suffering, setting the scene for one of the most poignant miracles in the Gospels. The narrative surrounding this word emphasizes that profound faith can lead one to **approach** `{{G4334}}` Jesus even from a position of desperation, and that even the slightest **touch** `{{G680}}` can be a point of connection to divine healing.