### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **árrhōstos**, represented by `{{G732}}`, is defined as **infirm** and is used to describe those who are **sick**. Its composition from Α (as a negative particle) and a presumed derivative of ῥώννυμι points to a state of being without strength. It appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, consistently referring to physical ailment that requires healing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G732}}` is primarily used in the context of Jesus's and his disciples' healing ministries. When Jesus saw a great multitude, he was moved with compassion and healed their **sick** [[Matthew 14:14]]. Even in a place where he could do no mighty work, he still laid his hands on a few **sick folk** and healed them [[Mark 6:5]]. The disciples also continued this work, anointing many that were **sick** with oil and healing them [[Mark 6:13]]. The term is also used in a prophetic sense, where believers are told they will lay hands on the **sick**, who will then recover [[Mark 16:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of sickness and healing:
* `{{G2323}}` **therapeúō** (to wait upon menially, i.e. (figuratively) to adore (God), or (specially) to relieve (of disease):--cure, heal, worship): This word frequently describes the action performed on those who are `{{G732}}`. In multiple accounts, Jesus or his disciples **healed** the sick ([[Matthew 14:14]], [[Mark 6:5]], [[Mark 6:13]]).
* `{{G772}}` **asthenḗs** (strengthless (in various applications, literal, figurative and moral):--more feeble, impotent, sick, without strength, weak(-er, -ness, thing)): This term is used alongside `{{G732}}` to describe a state of infirmity. Paul notes that many in Corinth are **weak** `{{G772}}` and **sickly** `{{G732}}` [[1 Corinthians 11:30]].
* `{{G2007}}` **epitíthēmi** (to impose (in a friendly or hostile sense):--add unto, lade, lay upon, put (up) on, set on (up), + surname, X wound): This word denotes the physical act of contact used in healing. Jesus **laid** his hands upon a few sick folk [[Mark 6:5]], and it is promised that believers will **lay** hands on the sick [[Mark 16:18]].
* `{{G5495}}` **cheír** (the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by Hebraism) a means or instrument):--hand): As the instrument for healing, the **hand** is laid upon the sick to bring about recovery ([[Mark 6:5]], [[Mark 16:18]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G732}}` is demonstrated through its connection to divine power and ministry.
* **Ministry of Compassion:** The presence of the **sick** `{{G732}}` provides the context for demonstrating Jesus's compassion and power. His decision to heal the multitude was a direct result of being "moved with compassion" [[Matthew 14:14]].
* **The Act of Healing:** Healing the sick is presented as a cornerstone of ministry. This is evident in the actions of Jesus [[Mark 6:5]], his disciples [[Mark 6:13]], and the authority given to future believers [[Mark 16:18]], often through the laying on of hands.
* **Spiritual Infirmity:** The word is extended beyond physical illness in [[1 Corinthians 11:30]], where being **sickly** is linked to a spiritual cause among the believers, indicating a condition of spiritual weakness and ill-health.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G732}}` is a specific term for being **sick** or **infirm**. Its scriptural usage is almost entirely focused on the act of divine healing. It serves to highlight the compassionate nature of Jesus, the authority passed to his followers to heal, and the physical act of laying on hands as a means of ministry. Furthermore, its use by Paul broadens the concept to include spiritual sickness, connecting the physical state of infirmity to one's spiritual condition.
TRV