The Greek word holoklēría, represented by G3647, means perfect soundness. It is derived from a word signifying integrity and refers specifically to physical wholeness. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse, which makes its single instance in scripture a focal point for its meaning.
The sole use of G3647 is found in Acts 3:16, where Peter addresses the crowd after healing a lame man. He explains that faith in the name of Jesus is the source of the miracle. The result of this faith, which came "by him," was that it had given G1325 the man "this perfect soundness" in full view of everyone present. The term describes a complete and total physical restoration, a wholeness that was publicly witnessed and undeniable.
Several related words in the context of Acts 3:16 illuminate the meaning of holoklēría:
- G4102 pístis (faith): Defined as persuasion, moral conviction, and reliance upon Christ, this is the essential channel through which the healing occurred. The verse states the restoration was accomplished "through faith in his name" Acts 3:16.
- G4732 stereóō (receive strength, make strong): This word means to solidify or confirm. It is used twice in the verse to describe the physical effect on the man, stating that faith in Jesus' name had made this man strong Acts 3:16.
- G3686 ónoma (name): This word signifies authority and character. The healing power is attributed to the name of Jesus, highlighting that the restoration is a direct result of His power and authority Acts 3:16.
- G1325 dídōmi (to give): Meaning to bestow or grant, this word emphasizes that the "perfect soundness" was not earned but was given as a gift through faith Acts 3:16.
The theological weight of G3647 is concentrated in its single appearance, establishing a clear doctrine of divine restoration.
- Wholeness as a Gift: The verse demonstrates that complete physical restoration is a gift given G1325 by God. It is not achieved by human means but is bestowed through Jesus, as stated in the phrase "the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness" Acts 3:16.
- The Power of Christ's Name: The concept of perfect soundness is inextricably linked to the authority inherent in the name G3686 of Jesus. This aligns with the apostolic teaching that salvation and restoration are found in no other name Acts 4:12.
- Faith as the Activating Principle: The "perfect soundness" was a direct result of faith G4102. This event serves as a physical manifestation of the spiritual principle that salvation is received "through faith" Ephesians 2:8, showing that reliance on Christ is the key to receiving God's power.
In summary, holoklēría G3647 offers a concise yet profound insight into the nature of divine healing. Though used only once, it powerfully illustrates that "perfect soundness" is a complete restoration that originates from God. Its context in Acts 3:16 forever links this wholeness to the authority of Jesus' name, which is accessed and made effective through faith. The word demonstrates how a singular, miraculous event can define the theological meaning of a term for all of scripture.
TRV