### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **anorthóō**, represented by `{{G461}}`, means **to straighten up**, **lift up**, or **make straight**. Derived from ἀνά and a derivative of ὀρθός, it appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses**, signifying its application in contexts of both physical and metaphorical restoration.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G461}}` describes different forms of restoration. In Luke, it portrays a literal, physical healing where a woman, after having hands laid on her, was immediately **made straight** and glorified God [[Luke 13:13]]. The word is used metaphorically in Hebrews as an exhortation to believers to **lift up** hands that hang down and feeble knees, encouraging spiritual renewal and strength [[Hebrews 12:12]]. Prophetically, it is used in Acts to describe God's promise to **set up** the fallen tabernacle of David, signifying a divine act of covenantal restoration [[Acts 15:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of weakness and restoration connected to `{{G461}}`:
* `{{G3935}}` **paríēmi** (to let by, i.e. relax): This word describes the state of weakness that requires intervention, such as the hands that **hang down** which are to be lifted up [[Hebrews 12:12]].
* `{{G3886}}` **paralýō** (to loosen beside, i.e. relax (perfect passive participle, paralyzed or enfeebled)): Directly contrasting the action of `{{G461}}`, this word denotes the **feeble** condition of the knees that need strengthening [[Hebrews 12:12]].
* `{{G456}}` **anoikodoméō** (to rebuild): Used alongside `{{G461}}` in the context of prophecy, this term emphasizes the comprehensive nature of God's restoration, as He promises to **build again** the fallen tabernacle of David [[Acts 15:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G461}}` is seen in its application to God's restorative power:
* **Divine Healing:** The immediate physical healing of the woman demonstrates Christ's authority over infirmity. Her being **made straight** leads directly to her glorifying God `{{G1392}}`, linking physical restoration to worship [[Luke 13:13]].
* **Spiritual Encouragement:** The command to **lift up** weak hands and knees serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual perseverance. It calls believers to find renewed strength and resolve in their faith, especially during times of trial [[Hebrews 12:12]].
* **Covenantal Faithfulness:** God's promise to **set up** the fallen tabernacle of David points to His ultimate faithfulness. This act of restoration is not merely structural but is a fulfillment of His covenant promises to His people [[Acts 15:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G461}}` is a dynamic term that moves from the literal to the metaphorical and prophetic. It captures the essence of divine intervention, whether in making a bent body straight, exhorting a weary spirit to stand firm, or promising the restoration of a fallen nation. The word illustrates God's power to lift up, make straight, and rebuild what is broken, weak, or has fallen down.
TRV