### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek term κλινίδιον (`{{G2826}}`) is a diminutive form derived from κλίνη (`{{G2825}}`), which means a "couch" or "bed." The suffix -ίδιον typically denotes something small or humble. Therefore, κλινίδιον fundamentally signifies a "small bed," "little couch," or more accurately, a "pallet" or "mat." Its semantic range points to a simple, often portable, and unpretentious sleeping or resting place, distinct from a substantial piece of furniture. It conveys the idea of a humble mat or stretcher, easily carried, rather than a fixed, elaborate bed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
κλινίδιον appears exclusively in the context of miraculous healings within the New Testament, consistently highlighting the humble circumstances of the afflicted and the profound power of God.
* **The Paralytic in Capernaum:** This is the most prominent context for κλινίδιον. In the parallel accounts of the healing of the paralytic man let down through the roof, the word is used multiple times. In [[Mark 2:4]], [[Mark 2:9]], [[Mark 2:11]], and [[Mark 2:12]], as well as [[Luke 5:19]], [[Luke 5:24]], the man is carried on his "pallet" (κλινίδιον). Jesus' command, "Arise, take up your κλινίδιον and go to your house," serves as a visible, undeniable proof of his complete healing and Jesus' authority to forgive sins. The ease with which the man could "take up" his pallet underscores its lightweight and simple nature.
* **Apostolic Healings in Acts:** In [[Acts 5:15]], the term is used to describe the "beds" or "pallets" upon which the sick were laid out in the streets of Jerusalem, hoping that Peter's shadow might fall on them and bring healing. This again emphasizes the common, humble nature of these resting places and the desperation of the people seeking divine intervention.
In all occurrences, κλινίδιον is associated with individuals suffering from physical ailments, often those who are paralyzed or severely ill, highlighting their dependency and vulnerability. The act of "taking up" the κλινίδιον signifies not only physical restoration but also a profound reversal of fortune, transforming an object of confinement into a symbol of freedom and witness.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **κλίνη (`{{G2825}}`):** As the root word, κλίνη refers to a broader category of couches, beds, or dining couches. κλινίδιον is its diminutive, specifically denoting a smaller, humbler version, often a simple mat or stretcher.
* **κράββατος (`{{G2895}}`):** This Aramaic loanword, also translated as "pallet" or "mat," is frequently used interchangeably with κλινίδιον in healing narratives, particularly in Mark's Gospel (e.g., [[Mark 2:4]], [[Mark 2:9]], [[Mark 2:11]], [[Mark 2:12]] often appear with κράββατος in various manuscripts or parallel accounts). Both terms convey the idea of a simple, portable bed for the infirm, highlighting their humble status. While κλινίδιον is a Greek diminutive, κράββατος is a transliteration, but their semantic function in the New Testament is very similar.
* **κοίτη (`{{G2845}}`):** This term refers more broadly to a "bed" or "place of lying," and can also denote the act of lying down or even sexual intercourse. While related to rest, it lacks the specific connotation of a humble, portable pallet for the infirm that κλινίδιον carries.
* **Concepts:** The word κλινίδιον is deeply interwoven with the biblical concepts of *infirmity*, *suffering*, *divine healing*, *miraculous power*, and *restoration*. It serves as a tangible symbol of human weakness met by God's omnipotence.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of κλινίδιον lies primarily in its role within the narratives of divine healing.
* **Manifestation of God's Power and Compassion:** The κλινίδιον represents the lowest state of human physical helplessness. When Jesus commands the paralytic to "take up his κλινίδιον," it is a direct and undeniable demonstration of God's power to restore completely. This act is not merely a physical cure but a powerful sign of God's compassionate intervention into human suffering, reaching those in their most vulnerable state.
* **Symbol of Transformation and New Life:** The κλινίδιον transforms from an object of confinement and a symbol of infirmity into a testament of freedom and a witness to divine power. The ability of the healed individual to carry what once carried them powerfully symbolizes the spiritual transformation and new life offered through Christ. It signifies a reversal of roles – from passive recipient of care to active participant in life, reflecting spiritual renewal.
* **Authority of Christ:** In the context of the paralytic's healing, the command to take up the κλινίδιον is directly linked to Jesus' authority to forgive sins. The visible miracle serves as proof of His spiritual authority, demonstrating that His power is holistic, addressing both the physical manifestation of suffering and the deeper spiritual root of brokenness.
* **Humility and Accessibility:** The very nature of a κλινίδιον (a simple, humble pallet) reflects the accessibility of God's grace to all, especially the marginalized and the poor. God's miraculous power is not reserved for the elite but extends to those whose only possession might be a humble mat.
### Summary
κλινίδιον (`{{G2826}}`) denotes a "small bed," "little couch," or "pallet," emphasizing its humble and often portable nature. Its limited yet significant occurrences in the New Testament are exclusively within healing narratives, particularly concerning the paralytic in the Gospels and the sick seeking healing from the apostles in Acts. The word serves as a poignant symbol of human infirmity and dependence, contrasting sharply with the complete and undeniable power of God manifested through Jesus Christ and His disciples. The command to "take up your κλινίδιον" transcends a mere physical act; it signifies a profound transformation from confinement to freedom, from helplessness to dignity. Theologically, κλινίδιον underscores God's deep compassion for the vulnerable, the tangible display of divine power, and the comprehensive authority of Christ over both physical ailment and spiritual brokenness.
TRV