ἀσθένημα (asthenēma)
asthenēma
weakness
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun asthenēma refers to a state of weakness or infirmity, derived from the adjective asthenēs. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in Romans 15:1, where Paul urges believers to bear with the failings of others. Here, the word likely denotes moral or spiritual frailty rather than physical illness, describing those whose faith is still developing and prone to doubt.
Its usage highlights a specific kind of vulnerability: hesitation or lack of conviction that leads to stumbling. Unlike terms for physical disease, asthenēma points to an internal struggle with belief or practice. Paul’s instruction to "bear with" these weaknesses emphasizes patience and mutual support within the community, acknowledging that spiritual growth is often gradual and marked by periods of uncertainty.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word asthenēma in Romans 15:1 points to a specific kind of spiritual fragility. It describes believers who are still growing in faith, often struggling with doubt or uncertainty about how to live out their beliefs. This is not a moral failure but a natural part of the journey for many Christians.
Paul’s instruction here is gentle and practical. He calls those who feel more confident in their faith to bear with these weaknesses rather than judging them. This creates a community where people can grow at their own pace without fear of rejection. Your patience with others reflects God’s patience with you.
When you encounter someone struggling with their walk, remember that spiritual strength is often built through mutual support. The church becomes a place of healing when we choose to carry each other’s burdens instead of demanding perfection from one another.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- weaknesses1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἀσθενήματα1×
Key Verses
-
Romans 15:1
Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of the weak, and not to please ourselves.
This is the only New Testament occurrence, where Paul uses asthenēma to describe moral or spiritual frailty that requires patient bearing by stronger believers.