The Greek word sphyrón, represented by G4974, refers to the ankle bone. It appears only 1 time across 1 unique verse in the Bible. The definition describes the ankle as globular, and its single use in scripture is to denote the specific part of the body that is miraculously healed.
The only biblical context for G4974 is the healing of a lame man in the book of Acts. In this account, a man is taken by the hand and lifted up, and "immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength" Acts 3:7. The term is used in a literal, anatomical sense to pinpoint the source of the man's ailment and the focus of his miraculous restoration to strength.
Several related words in the narrative provide a fuller picture of this healing event:
- G4732 stereóō (received strength): This word means to solidify or make strong. It is used to describe how the man's weakened body parts were made firm and functional. It is also used to describe how churches were established in the faith Acts 16:5.
- G1453 egeírō (lifted him up): Meaning to waken or rouse, this term is used for the physical act of lifting the man, but it is also used powerfully in contexts of resurrection, as in the belief that God raised Jesus from the dead Romans 10:9.
- G939 básis (feet): Defined as a pace or foot, this word appears alongside ankle bones in its only biblical mention, specifying the parts of the body that were healed and made strong Acts 3:7.
The theological significance of G4974 is tied entirely to the miracle it describes.
- Instantaneous Restoration: The healing of the ankle bones was immediate, as emphasized by the word parachrēma G3916, meaning instantly. This demonstrates a sudden and complete act of divine power, not a gradual recovery Acts 3:7.
- Source of Strength: The strength the ankle bones received did not come from human effort. A related verse specifies that it was through faith in the name of Jesus that the man was made strong Acts 3:16. This highlights that the miracle is a sign pointing to a higher power.
- Physical Evidence of Divine Authority: The tangible strengthening of the man's feet and ankle bones served as undeniable proof of the power at work, leading to the man glorifying God Luke 18:43.
In summary, while G4974 is an exceptionally rare word, its single appearance is significant. It provides a specific, physical detail in a pivotal miracle of healing. The term ankle bones moves beyond a simple anatomical reference to become part of a powerful testimony to instantaneous, divine restoration, where weakness is transformed into strength through faith.
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