ἄρρωστος (arrōstos)
arrōstos
ill
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word arrōstos describes a state of physical weakness or illness, literally meaning "without strength." Its root combines a negative prefix with a term related to power or force, creating a vivid image of someone who lacks the vitality to function normally. In the New Testament, it is used specifically for bodily sickness rather than moral failing or spiritual dryness.
This term appears in five verses, primarily within the Gospels and Paul’s letters. Jesus uses it when noting that crowds followed Him because He healed the arrōstos (Matthew 14:14), highlighting His compassion for those physically debilitated. Mark records Jesus sending out disciples to heal the sick (Mark 6:13) and later mentions signs including healing the arrōstos (Mark 16:18). Paul also references it when discussing discipline in the Corinthian church, linking physical illness to spiritual consequences (1 Corinthians 11:30).
Translators typically render arrōstos as "sick" or "ill," capturing its straightforward medical sense. The word emphasizes human vulnerability and the need for divine intervention, serving as a tangible reminder of Jesus’ ministry to restore both body and spirit.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word arrōstos paints a clear picture of physical weakness, literally meaning "without strength." When the New Testament uses this term, it is describing bodily sickness rather than moral failure or spiritual dryness. This distinction matters because it shows that illness is not always a sign of divine displeasure. Instead, it highlights human vulnerability and our need for care.
In Matthew 14:14, we see Jesus responding to a great multitude of sick people with compassion. He did not ignore their pain or offer empty platitudes. He healed them, demonstrating that God cares about our physical bodies as well as our souls. This ministry reminds us that the Gospel addresses the whole person.
Even in difficult times, such as the warning in 1 Corinthians 11:30, illness can serve as a sobering reminder of our dependence on God. It invites us to examine our lives and seek His healing power. Whether you are suffering now or supporting someone who is, this word offers hope. Christ’s compassion extends to every form of weakness, offering rest and restoration.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- sick3×
- sick,1×
- [the] sick1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀρρώστους3×
- ἄρρωστοι,1×
- ἀρρώστοις1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 14:14
Jesus went out, and he saw a great multitude. He had compassion on them and healed their sick.
This verse highlights Jesus' active compassion toward the sick, showing that physical illness is a primary focus of His earthly ministry.
-
Mark 6:13
They cast out many demons, and anointed many with oil who were sick and healed them.
Here the word describes those anointed with oil, linking physical healing with practical acts of care and spiritual authority.
-
I Corinthians 11:30
For this cause many among you are weak and sickly, and not a few sleep.
Paul uses this term to explain physical weakness within the church as a potential consequence of improper conduct during communion.