βάσις (basis)
basis
foot
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun basis literally means "a step" or "the act of stepping," derived from the verb bainō, which simply means to walk. In Scripture, this word appears only once, in Acts 3:7, where it is translated as "foot." Here, Peter heals a man lame from birth by telling him that silver and gold he does not have, but what he does have he gives: in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, he commands the man to rise and walk. The text specifies that Peter took him by the right hand and raised him up, and immediately his feet and ankles received strength.
While basis can refer generally to a step or footing in classical Greek, its biblical usage is concrete and physical. It does not carry metaphorical weight here but serves as the precise anatomical reference for the healed limb. The word underscores the tangible nature of the miracle; it was not merely a spiritual encouragement but a restoration of the physical structure that allows one to stand and move.
Etymologically, basis connects directly to the action of walking. By using this specific term rather than a more general word for leg or body part, the narrative highlights the functional restoration of the man’s ability to walk. The healing is complete not just in feeling but in movement, as the "foot" (basis) becomes the instrument of his new life.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word basis refers to the foot, the part of the body that connects us to the ground and allows us to move forward. In Acts 3:7, Peter heals a man who had been unable to walk since birth. The text notes that immediately his feet received strength. This detail shows that God’s power works in real, physical ways. It is not just about feelings or thoughts; it is about restoring the whole person so they can stand and walk again.
For your daily life, this reminds you that Jesus cares about your practical needs. When you feel stuck or unable to move forward in a difficult situation, remember that God can give you strength where you need it most. You do not have to rely on your own resources or wealth. Peter had no silver or gold, but he offered healing through the name of Jesus. This shows that true help comes from God alone.
As you face challenges, trust that God sees your struggles and wants to restore your ability to walk in His path. Whether your needs are large or small, He is able to strengthen your feet. You can rest in the hope that He will provide the support you need to keep going.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- feet1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- βάσεις1×
Key Verses
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Acts 3:7
He took him by the right hand and raised him up. Immediately his feet and his ankle bones received strength.
This verse highlights the physical restoration of the man's ability to walk, showing that Jesus' power brings tangible strength to weak limbs.