### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anastenázō**, represented by `{{G389}}`, is defined as **to sigh deeply**. Formed from the words ἀνά and στενάζω, its meaning is specific and evocative. This term is exceptionally rare in the biblical text; it appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse**, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G389}}` is in the Gospel of Mark. The verse describes a moment where Jesus, in response to a request for a sign, **sighed deeply** in his spirit. This action immediately precedes his verbal rebuke of the generation for their unbelief, as recorded in [[Mark 8:12]]: "And he **sighed deeply** in his spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek after a sign?". The word captures a profound, internal, and sorrowful reaction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its biblical context help illuminate its meaning:
* `{{G4151}}` **pneûma**: This word for **spirit** indicates that the sigh was not merely physical but came from a deep, internal place. It is defined as a current of air, breath, or figuratively, a spirit, including the rational soul or mind [[Mark 8:12]].
* `{{G3004}}` **légō**: This verb for **say** or "saith" immediately follows the sigh, linking the deep emotion to the spoken words that follow. It properly means to "lay" forth or relate in words [[Mark 8:12]].
* `{{G2532}}` **kaí**: A primary particle meaning **and**, it connects the act of sighing deeply with the subsequent speech, showing a direct cause-and-effect relationship between the inner grief and the outward declaration [[Mark 8:12]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G389}}` is demonstrated entirely within its single context. It offers a powerful insight into the nature of Christ.
* **A Profound Spiritual Response:** The act of sighing "in his spirit" `{{G4151}}` shows that this was not a superficial expression of frustration but a deep, spiritual reaction to the hardness of heart he encountered [[Mark 8:12]].
* **Grief Over Unbelief:** The sigh is directly provoked by the demand for a sign. This places the emotion of `{{G389}}` as one of sorrow and grief over the persistent unbelief of that generation [[Mark 8:12]].
* **Emotional Depth:** The use of such a specific and intense word provides a glimpse into a moment of profound, human-like emotion, revealing a deep sense of sorrow or weariness in the face of faithlessness.
### Summary
In summary, **anastenázō** `{{G389}}` is a rare but highly descriptive word. Though used only once, it provides a powerful and poignant look into a moment of deep spiritual grief. Its appearance in [[Mark 8:12]] colors the entire passage, demonstrating that Jesus's response to unbelief was not just a verbal rebuke but was rooted in a profound, sorrowful sigh from his very spirit.
TRV