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.
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.
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).
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.
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