The Greek word chōlós, represented by G5560, is a term for being lame, halt, or a cripple. It appears 15 times across 15 unique verses in the Bible. The word describes a physical inability to walk properly, but it is also used to illustrate broader concepts of human frailty, social marginalization, and the need for divine restoration.
In the biblical narrative, G5560 most often appears in accounts of Jesus's miracles, where healing the lame is a sign of his messianic authority. When John the Baptist's disciples ask for proof of Jesus's identity, he tells them to report that "the lame walk" (Matthew 11:5, Luke 7:22). The word is also used to identify those on the margins of society whom God welcomes, such as when the poor, maimed, lame, and blind are invited to a great feast (Luke 14:13, Luke 14:21). The healing of a man who was lame from his mother's womb at the temple gate is a pivotal event in the early church Acts 3:2. Figuratively, the term describes a state of spiritual compromise, as it is better to enter life halt than to be cast into hell with two feet Matthew 18:8.
Several related words are frequently used alongside G5560 to describe conditions requiring divine healing:
- G5185 typhlós (blind): This word, meaning physically or mentally blind, is almost always listed with lame in catalogs of Jesus's miracles, highlighting the comprehensive nature of his healing power (Matthew 11:5, Matthew 21:14).
- G4043 peripatéō (walk): This is the direct result of healing the lame. The declaration "the lame walk" Matthew 11:5 serves as the primary evidence of restoration and is a demonstration of divine ability.
- G2948 kyllós (maimed): Meaning crippled or maimed in the hands or feet, this term is often used with lame to describe those with severe physical impairments who were brought to Jesus for healing (Matthew 15:30, Matthew 18:8).
The theological weight of G5560 is demonstrated through its consistent use in key contexts:
- Evidence of Messianic Power: The healing of the lame is presented as a fulfillment of messianic prophecy. When great multitudes bring the lame, blind, and maimed to Jesus, his healing of them causes the people to glorify the God of Israel Matthew 15:30-31.
- Inclusion of the Outcast: Those who were lame were often seen as outsiders. Jesus's specific inclusion of the lame in his teachings and ministry signifies the gospel's reach to all, regardless of their physical or social standing Luke 14:13.
- Spiritual Weakness and Healing: The term is used metaphorically to caution believers. The instruction to "make straight paths for your feet" is given so that what is lame will not be turned out of the way, but will instead be healed, pointing to the need for spiritual stability Hebrews 12:13.
In summary, G5560 moves beyond a simple description of a physical condition. It functions as a powerful symbol within the Gospels and Acts, representing human helplessness and the transformative power of Christ's ministry. Whether describing a literal healing that demonstrates Jesus's authority or a figurative weakness that requires spiritual support, the word lame consistently points to the need for and the reality of divine restoration.
TRV