### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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