### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **asthenéō**, represented by `{{G770}}`, means **to be feeble** in any sense. It appears 39 times across 35 unique verses in the Bible, encompassing a range of meanings from being physically **sick** or diseased to being spiritually or morally **weak**. Its base definition is "to be feeble (in any sense):--be diseased, impotent folk (man), (be) sick, (be, be made) weak."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G770}}` is used in several key contexts. It frequently describes physical illness, as when Jesus commands his disciples to "heal the **sick**" [[Matthew 10:8]] or when Lazarus is described as being **sick** [[John 11:1]]. It is also used to describe the "great multitude of **impotent folk**" at the pool of Bethesda [[John 5:3]]. The term extends beyond physical ailment to describe spiritual or moral frailty. Paul speaks of one who is "**weak** in the faith" [[Romans 14:1]] and warns believers not to become a stumbling block to those who are **weak** [[1 Corinthians 8:9]]. The law itself is described as being **weak** through the flesh, unable to save on its own [[Romans 8:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a broader understanding of weakness and strength:
* `{{G769}}` **asthéneia** (feebleness (of mind or body); by implication, malady; morally, frailty): As the noun form, it is directly linked to `{{G770}}`. It is used to describe the **weakness** in which Christ's power is made perfect [[2 Corinthians 12:9]].
* `{{G102}}` **adýnatos** (unable, i.e. weak... impossible): This term highlights inability. It is used in [[Romans 8:3]] to describe what the law **could not do** because it was **weak** `{{G770}}` through the flesh.
* `{{G1415}}` **dynatós** (powerful or capable... strong): This word serves as the direct opposite of being weak. Paul contrasts the two, stating, "for when I am **weak** `{{G770}}`, then am I **strong**" [[2 Corinthians 12:10]].
* `{{G2323}}` **therapeúō** (to wait upon menially... to relieve (of disease)): This word for healing is often the response to the condition of being **sick** `{{G770}}`, as seen in Jesus's command to his disciples [[Matthew 10:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G770}}` is significant, touching on both human frailty and divine power.
* **The Ministry of Compassion:** The frequent call to heal the **sick** ([[Matthew 10:8]], [[Luke 9:2]]) establishes physical healing as a core component of Christ's ministry and a demonstration of God's power over disease and suffering.
* **Responsibility within the Community:** The concept of the brother who is **weak** in faith creates a duty for other believers to provide support [[Acts 20:35]] and to be careful not to wound their conscience or cause them to stumble ([[Romans 14:21]], [[1 Corinthians 8:12]]).
* **The Paradox of Strength in Weakness:** Paul radically redefines weakness as a conduit for God's power. He declares that he takes pleasure in his infirmities, because "when I am **weak** `{{G770}}`, then am I strong" [[2 Corinthians 12:10]]. This principle is rooted in Christ, who was crucified in **weakness** `{{G769}}` but lives by the power of God [[2 Corinthians 13:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G770}}` is a versatile term that describes both physical and spiritual feebleness. It illustrates the reality of human vulnerability, from the physically **diseased** in need of healing to the spiritually **weak** in need of guidance. Theologically, it underscores God's compassion for human suffering and presents the profound paradox that in our weakness, God's strength is most perfectly displayed.
TRV