from Α (as a negative particle) and the base of σθενόω; strengthless (in various applications, literal, figurative and moral):--more feeble, impotent, sick, without strength, weak(-er, -ness, thing).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **asthenḗs**, represented by `{{G772}}`, fundamentally means **strengthless**. Derived from Α (as a negative particle) and a word for strength, it literally signifies being "without strength." It appears **25 times** across **23 unique verses** in the Bible. Its definition encompasses various applications, whether literal, figurative, or moral, to describe that which is **feeble**, **impotent**, **sick**, or **weak**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G772}}` is used in several key contexts. It denotes physical illness or infirmity, as when Jesus instructs his followers to **heal** the **sick** [[Luke 10:9]] or when people are judged for not ministering to the **sick** [[Matthew 25:44]]. The term also describes a state of moral or spiritual frailty, most notably in the declaration that "the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is **weak**" [[Matthew 26:41]]. It can refer to a conscience that is not fully mature in knowledge, which is described as **weak** and therefore easily defiled [[1 Corinthians 8:7]]. Figuratively, it describes what lacks worldly power, as God chooses the **weak** things of the world to confound the mighty [[1 Corinthians 1:27]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G772}}`:
* `{{G2478}}` **ischyrós** (forcible): This word for **strong** or **mighty** is used as a direct opposite to `{{G772}}`. God chooses the **weak things** of the world to confound the things which are **mighty** [[1 Corinthians 1:27]].
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh): This term for the **body** or human nature is often the subject of weakness. It is explicitly paired with `{{G772}}` to describe the human condition, where the spirit is willing but the **flesh** is **weak** [[Mark 14:38]].
* `{{G4893}}` **syneídēsis** (conscience): This word for moral consciousness is directly qualified by `{{G772}}` in discussions of faith and conduct. A believer with a **weak** **conscience** can be defiled by eating food offered to idols [[1 Corinthians 8:7]].
* `{{G732}}` **árrhōstos** (infirm): A close synonym for physical sickness, this word appears alongside `{{G772}}` to describe the poor spiritual state of the Corinthian church, where many are **weak** and **sickly** [[1 Corinthians 11:30]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G772}}` is significant, highlighting core truths about God and humanity.
* **The Human Condition:** The term underscores humanity's inherent frailty. Christ died for the ungodly while they were still "without strength" [[Romans 5:6]], establishing a baseline of helplessness that requires divine intervention. The flesh is described as **weak**, prone to fail even when the spirit is willing [[Matthew 26:41]].
* **God's Counterintuitive Power:** God's methods are shown to be contrary to human standards of power. He chooses the **weak** and foolish things of the world to shame the strong and wise [[1 Corinthians 1:27]]. In a profound paradox, the "weakness of God" is described as being stronger than men [[1 Corinthians 1:25]].
* **Christian Responsibility:** Scripture commands believers to care for those who are **weak**. This includes exhortations to **support** the **weak** [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]] and provide for the physically **sick** [[Matthew 25:43]]. Paul provides a model of ministry by becoming **weak** himself in order to win the **weak** for Christ [[1 Corinthians 9:22]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G772}}` is a multifaceted term that moves beyond a simple definition of physical weakness. It describes the state of being strengthless in body, in moral fortitude, and in worldly standing. Theologically, it is crucial for understanding the human need for salvation, the surprising nature of God's power which is perfected in weakness, and the call for believers to minister to the vulnerable and **feeble** among them.
TRV