The Greek word leprós, represented by G3015, is defined as scaly, or leprous. It appears 9 times across 9 unique verses and is consistently used to refer to a leper.
In biblical accounts, G3015 appears in several key contexts. It is frequently listed among the severe afflictions healed by Jesus, serving as a sign of His authority, as when He states "the lepers are cleansed" (Matthew 11:5, Luke 7:22). The word is also used to identify individuals, such as in the account of Jesus visiting the house of "Simon the leper" (Matthew 26:6, Mark 14:3). The gospels record direct encounters with those afflicted, including a man who beseeches Jesus to make him clean Mark 1:40 and ten lepers who call out to Him from a distance Luke 17:12. This condition was significant enough that Jesus specifically empowered His disciples to "cleanse the lepers" as part of their ministry Matthew 10:8.
The state of being a leper is closely associated with several other key scriptural concepts and actions:
- G2511 katharízō (to cleanse): This is the action most directly connected to leprós. A leper is not simply healed but is "cleansed," as seen in the command to the disciples Matthew 10:8 and in the accounts of Jesus's miracles Luke 7:22.
- G2323 therapeúō (to heal): This term provides the broader context for the ministry of Jesus and his disciples. The command to "cleanse the lepers" is part of the larger instruction to heal the sick Matthew 10:8.
- G770 asthenéō (to be feeble, sick): This word describes the general state of weakness or disease that Jesus addresses. The cleansing of lepers is a specific and powerful example of healing those who are sick Matthew 10:8.
- G5185 typhlós (blind): Lepers are often mentioned alongside the blind and other afflicted groups, highlighting the comprehensive nature of Christ's restorative power Matthew 11:5.
The theological significance of G3015 is centered on the concept of cleansing and restoration.
- A Sign of Messianic Power: The cleansing of lepers is presented as direct evidence of Jesus's divine mission. When asked for a sign, Jesus includes it in His reply to John's disciples, alongside raising the dead and preaching the gospel to the poor Matthew 11:5.
- Conferred Spiritual Authority: By commanding His disciples to "cleanse the lepers," Jesus demonstrates that His authority over disease and uncleanness is transferable to His followers, empowering them for ministry Matthew 10:8.
- A Picture of Purification: The consistent use of the verb G2511 "to cleanse" in relation to leprós suggests a condition that goes beyond physical sickness. The plea of the leper is specifically "thou canst make me clean" Matthew 8:2, pointing toward a need for total purification that only divine power can accomplish.
In summary, G3015 leprós is more than a term for a physical ailment. It represents a state of profound need and separation that requires a powerful act of divine intervention. The cleansing of the leper in scripture serves as a recurring and potent symbol of Jesus Christ's authority to not only heal the body but to restore and purify a person completely.
TRV