The Greek word íama, represented by G2386, refers to a cure or healing. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from a word meaning to cure, G2386 specifically denotes the effect of the cure itself, rather than the process of healing.
All biblical occurrences of G2386 are found in 1 Corinthians 12, where it is discussed within the context of spiritual gifts. The term is presented as "gifts of healing" 1 Corinthians 12:9, which are bestowed by the Spirit. These gifts are explicitly listed among those that God has set G5087 in the church G1577, alongside roles like apostles and prophets, and other functions like miracles and helps 1 Corinthians 12:28. The passage also makes it clear that this gift is not universal, asking the rhetorical question, "Have all the gifts of healing G2386?" 1 Corinthians 12:30.
Several related words help frame the context of G2386:
- G5486 chárisma (a (divine) gratuity... a (spiritual) endowment... (free) gift): This term is paired directly with íama, identifying the cure as a divine gift from God 1 Corinthians 12:9.
- G4151 pneûma (a spirit... the Holy Spirit): This identifies the divine source of the gift of healing. The ability is given "by the same Spirit" 1 Corinthians 12:9.
- G1577 ekklēsía (a religious congregation... church): This is the specific setting where God has appointed these gifts to function for the benefit of the community 1 Corinthians 12:28.
- G1411 dýnamis (miraculous power... mighty work): Listed alongside gifts of healings, this word signifies the miraculous power of God at work within the church 1 Corinthians 12:28.
The theological weight of G2386 is connected to its role as a spiritual gift.
- A Divine Endowment: Healings are presented not as a human skill but as a chárisma G5486, a gracious gift from the pneûma G4151 1 Corinthians 12:9. This establishes God as the direct source of the cure.
- Function in the Body: God has set G5087 the gifts of healings within the church G1577, assigning them a specific function alongside other ministries like apostleship and teaching 1 Corinthians 12:28.
- Diversity of Ministry: The scripture explicitly states that not all members have this gift 1 Corinthians 12:30, which highlights the principle that different believers are given different functions for the building up of the whole church.
In summary, G2386 is a specialized term for a cure that is manifested as a spiritual gift. Its exclusive use in 1 Corinthians 12 frames healing not as a medical outcome but as a divinely-imparted ability given by the Spirit for the benefit of the church. The word underscores that such a cure is a direct effect of God's grace and power at work within the community of believers.
TRV