### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
ἀσθένημα (asthenēma, `{{G771}}`) is a noun derived from the verb ἀσθενέω (astheneō, `{{G770}}`), which means "to be weak, to be sick, or to be without strength." It is closely related to ἀσθένεια (astheneia, `{{G772}}`), a more general term for "weakness, infirmity, or sickness." While ἀσθένεια often denotes a broad spectrum of weaknesses—whether physical, moral, or spiritual—ἀσθένημα carries a more specific nuance, particularly as "a scruple of conscience" or a specific manifestation of "infirmity" in the moral or spiritual realm. The base definition provided highlights its application to an internal moral state, indicating a particular point of weakness or a conscientious reservation. This is not necessarily a moral failing or sin, but rather a limitation in one's understanding or faith that leads to hesitation or a sense of inability regarding certain practices, stemming from a less robust or fully enlightened conscience.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The Greek term ἀσθένημα (asthenēma, `{{G771}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Romans 15:1]]. The verse states: "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves." Here, "infirmities" translates ἀσθένημα.
The immediate context of [[Romans 14]] and [[Romans 15]] is paramount for a proper understanding of this solitary occurrence. Paul is addressing divisions within the Roman church, specifically concerning "disputable matters" such as dietary laws (eating meat offered to idols) and the observance of special days. He distinguishes between "the strong in faith" (those who understand their liberty in Christ and that all things are clean) and "the weak in faith" (those whose consciences are troubled by such practices, perhaps due to past associations or a less mature grasp of Christian freedom).
The "infirmity" (ἀσθένημα) of the weak is precisely this conscientious scruple. It is a weakness not of moral character or spiritual deficiency in salvation, but of a conscience that is not yet fully liberated or enlightened concerning the scope of Christian liberty. Paul's instruction to the "strong" is to "bear" (βαστάζω, bastazō, `{{G941}}`) these infirmities. This implies a responsibility to support, accommodate, and patiently endure with those who hold such scruples, rather than asserting their own liberty in a way that would cause the weaker brother to stumble, violate their conscience, or be led into sin. The act of bearing is not about tolerating sin, but about lovingly navigating differences rooted in varying degrees of spiritual maturity and understanding within the body of Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of ἀσθένημα is rich with related terms from the same root:
* ἀσθενέω (astheneō, `{{G770}}`): The verb from which ἀσθένημα is derived, meaning "to be weak, sick, or feeble." It can describe physical illness (e.g., [[Matthew 25:39]], [[Philippians 2:26]]) but also spiritual or moral weakness (e.g., [[Romans 8:3]], [[2 Corinthians 11:21]]).
* ἀσθένεια (astheneia, `{{G772}}`): A more general noun meaning "weakness, infirmity, sickness." It encompasses physical ailments (e.g., [[Luke 13:11]]), moral frailty (e.g., [[Romans 6:19]]), and even the inherent weakness of human nature in contrast to divine power (e.g., [[1 Corinthians 2:3]], [[2 Corinthians 12:9]]). ἀσθένημα specifies a particular manifestation of ἀσθένεια related to the conscience.
* ἀσθενής (asthenēs, `{{G772}}`): The adjective, meaning "weak, feeble, sickly." It is used to describe individuals who are physically weak (e.g., [[Acts 4:9]]) or, more pertinently to ἀσθένημα, those who are "weak in faith" (e.g., [[Romans 14:1]]).
Conceptually, ἀσθένημα is deeply intertwined with:
* **Conscience (συνείδησις, syneidēsis, `{{G4893}}`):** The internal moral faculty that judges one's actions. The "infirmity" is a weakness of this faculty, not necessarily a defect, but a lack of full clarity or conviction on certain matters.
* **Christian Liberty:** The freedom believers have in Christ from legalistic observances and human traditions. The "strong" exercise this liberty, but the "weak" struggle with it due to their ἀσθένημα.
* **Stumbling Block (πρόσκομμα, proskomma, `{{G4348}}`):** The potential for the actions of the strong to cause the weak to fall, violate their conscience, or be led into sin. Paul vehemently warns against this (e.g., [[Romans 14:13]]).
* **Love (ἀγάπη, agapē, `{{G26}}`):** The overarching principle that must guide the strong in their interaction with the weak, prioritizing the unity, edification, and well-being of the body of Christ over personal rights or preferences.
### Theological Significance
The single occurrence of ἀσθένημα in [[Romans 15:1]] carries profound theological weight, particularly concerning Christian ethics, community life, and the practical outworking of love within the church.
1. **Emphasis on Christian Unity and Love:** The term underscores the imperative for believers, especially those with greater understanding or spiritual maturity, to exercise self-restraint, humility, and compassion for the sake of unity within the body of Christ. It highlights that the exercise of Christian liberty must always be tempered by love (ἀγάπη), ensuring that one's freedom does not become a stumbling block or cause for distress to another believer. This aligns with the New Testament teaching that love is the fulfilling of the law (e.g., [[Romans 13:10]]).
2. **Discerning Spiritual Maturity:** The concept of ἀσθένημα helps define what it means to be "weak" in faith, not as a moral failing or a sign of being unsaved, but as a stage of spiritual development where one's conscience is still sensitive to matters that are, in themselves, morally neutral. It calls for patience, understanding, and gracious instruction rather than condemnation or disdain.
3. **The Nature of Bearing Burdens:** The command to "bear the infirmities of the weak" extends the broader biblical principle of bearing one another's burdens (e.g., [[Galatians 6:2]]). This "bearing" is an act of Christ-like self-sacrifice, prioritizing the spiritual health, growth, and conscience of others over personal convenience or rights. It directly mirrors the example of Christ, who "did not please himself" (cf. [[Romans 15:3]]).
4. **Conscience as a Guide, Not an Absolute Law:** While the "infirmity" relates to conscience, Paul's teaching implicitly guides believers towards a more robust, Christ-centered conscience. The ultimate goal is not to perpetually accommodate all scruples, but to lovingly guide the weak towards a deeper understanding of Christ's liberty, without forcing them or causing them to sin against their current conviction. It highlights that while conscience must be respected, it can also be immature or misinformed, requiring gracious education and patient discipleship within the community.
### Summary
ἀσθένημα (asthenēma, `{{G771}}`) refers to a specific "infirmity" or "scruple of conscience," stemming from a point of weakness in faith or understanding rather than a moral failing. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Romans 15:1]] is pivotal for understanding Paul's teaching on Christian liberty and community dynamics. It describes the conscientious reservations of those "weak in faith" concerning disputable matters. The word calls the "strong" to "bear" these infirmities, demonstrating Christ-like love and self-sacrifice by prioritizing the unity and spiritual well-being of the body over personal rights. This concept profoundly shapes our understanding of Christian ethics, community responsibility, and the compassionate guidance of believers towards spiritual maturity, all rooted in the principle of ἀγάπη (agapē, `{{G26}}`).
TRV