from a derivative of παραλύω; as if dissolved, i.e. "paralytic":--that had (sick of) the palsy.
Transliteration:paralytikós
Pronunciation:par-al-oo-tee-kos'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective G3885 (paralytikós) precisely describes one who is "paralytic" or "afflicted with palsy." Its etymological root lies in the verb παραλύω (paralýō, `{{G3886}}`), which signifies "to loosen," "to unbind," or "to dissolve." Thus, a paralytikós is literally one whose bodily functions, particularly motor control, have been "loosened" or "dissolved," rendering them immobile or severely impaired. The term conveys a profound state of physical helplessness, where the body's normal coherence and strength have been compromised.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term G3885 occurs exclusively in the Synoptic Gospels, consistently referring to individuals suffering from paralysis whom Jesus heals. These accounts are pivotal demonstrations of Jesus' divine authority and compassion.
* In [[Matthew 4:24]], paralytikós is listed among the various afflictions from which people were brought to Jesus for healing, underscoring the severity and breadth of the illnesses He addressed.
* [[Matthew 8:6]] presents a centurion appealing to Jesus for his servant, who is described as paralytikós and suffering "terribly." This highlights the agony associated with the condition.
* The most detailed accounts appear in [[Matthew 9:2]], [[Mark 2:3-10]], and [[Luke 5:24]]. Here, a paralytic is brought to Jesus by four friends, who go to extraordinary lengths (lowering him through the roof) to bring him into Jesus' presence. Significantly, Jesus' initial response is not to heal the man's body, but to declare his sins forgiven. This provokes controversy among the scribes, leading Jesus to perform the physical healing as proof of His authority to forgive sins. "But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins" – then He said to the paralytic, "Rise, pick up your bed and go home" [[Mark 2:10]]. The immediate and complete restoration of the paralytic's mobility serves as an undeniable sign of Jesus' spiritual authority.
The consistent depiction of paralytikós individuals as utterly dependent, yet recipients of miraculous and instantaneous healing, emphasizes Jesus' power over physical infirmity and His unique connection between physical healing and spiritual restoration.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of G3885 is enriched by examining its linguistic and thematic connections:
* παραλύω (paralýō, `{{G3886}}`): The verbal root, meaning "to unloose, enfeeble, paralyze." Its use in the passive voice (e.g., "to be paralyzed") directly informs the meaning of paralytikós.
* κλίνη (klínē, `{{G2825}}`): "Bed" or "couch." This noun frequently appears in narratives involving the paralytikós, as the afflicted person is often carried on a bed or commanded to "pick up your bed" after healing, signifying complete restoration.
* ἄρρωστος (árrōstos, `{{G732}}`): "Sick, infirm." A broader term for general illness, paralytikós represents a specific and severe manifestation of árrōstos.
* ἀσθενής (asthenḗs, `{{G770}}`): "Weak, infirm, without strength." This adjective captures the essence of the paralytic's condition – a profound lack of physical strength and capability.
* The concept of *healing* (θεραπεύω, therapeúō, `{{G2323}}`; ἰάομαι, iaómai, `{{G2390}}`) is central to every occurrence of paralytikós. These healings are not merely medical interventions but signs of the in-breaking Kingdom of God.
* The theme of *faith* is also prominent, particularly the faith of those who bring the paralytic to Jesus, demonstrating the power of intercessory belief.
* The profound link between physical *sickness* and spiritual *sin* is uniquely highlighted in the paralytikós narratives, where forgiveness of sins precedes or accompanies physical restoration.
### Theological Significance
The biblical portrayal of the paralytikós carries profound theological weight:
1. **Jesus' Divine Authority:** The ability to instantly and completely heal a paralytic, a condition considered incurable by human means, unequivocally demonstrates Jesus' divine power and authority over creation, sickness, and the consequences of the Fall. It is a tangible sign of His identity as the Son of God.
2. **Authority to Forgive Sins:** Perhaps the most striking theological implication is the explicit connection Jesus makes between the paralytic's physical ailment and his spiritual condition. By declaring, "Son, your sins are forgiven" [[Mark 2:5]], Jesus asserts an authority belonging to God alone. The subsequent physical healing serves as visible proof of this spiritual authority, challenging the prevailing understanding of sin and suffering and revealing Jesus as the ultimate redeemer of both body and soul.
3. **The Nature of the Kingdom of God:** The healing of the paralytikós is a foretaste of the Kingdom of God, where sickness, suffering, and the effects of sin are overcome. It signifies the restoration of humanity to its intended wholeness, both physically and spiritually.
4. **Compassion and Accessibility:** Jesus' willingness to engage with and heal those marginalized by severe illness underscores His deep compassion for human suffering. The narratives also highlight the accessibility of Jesus, even to those who cannot approach Him on their own, emphasizing the importance of community and intercession.
### Summary
The Greek term G3885 (paralytikós) denotes an individual afflicted with paralysis, literally one whose body has been "dissolved" or "unloosed" from its proper function. In the New Testament, particularly the Synoptic Gospels, the paralytikós serves as a potent symbol of human helplessness and the transformative power of Jesus Christ. The accounts of Jesus healing the paralytikós are not merely demonstrations of miraculous power but profound theological statements. They underscore Jesus' divine authority over both physical infirmity and, crucially, over sin, revealing Him as the one who can forgive sins and restore humanity to wholeness. These narratives powerfully illustrate the compassion of Christ, the nature of the in-breaking Kingdom of God, and the vital link between physical healing and spiritual redemption.
TRV