ἴαμα (iama)
iama
healing
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun iama refers to a specific means of healing or a medicinal remedy. While it shares a root with the verb for being healed, this word focuses on the instrument or substance that brings about recovery. In classical and Septuagint usage, it often denotes a physical cure or medicine, serving as the tangible agent of restoration.
In the New Testament, its application is notably concentrated in Paul’s discussion of spiritual gifts in First Corinthians. Here, the term appears in lists alongside other charismata, such as faith and tongues (1 Corinthians 12:9, 28, 30). This usage suggests that healing is viewed not merely as an event, but as a specific gift or resource provided to the community for its well-being.
The word’s presence in three verses highlights its role as a distinct category of grace. By using iama, the text distinguishes the act of healing from the general state of health, pointing to a particular divine provision available to believers. This concrete terminology grounds spiritual experiences in the reality of physical and communal care.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word iama points to a specific instrument or remedy for healing, rather than the general state of health. In the New Testament, this term appears exclusively in Paul’s letters, framing healing as a distinct gift given by the Spirit. This shifts our view from seeing healing as a random event to recognizing it as a tangible resource provided for the community.
When we encounter this word, we are reminded that spiritual gifts are practical tools. They are not abstract concepts but concrete means of grace intended to support one another. The focus here is on the provision itself—the remedy available through the Spirit’s work in the church.
This understanding encourages us to value every form of care within the body of Christ. Whether it is physical restoration or emotional support, these gifts are part of a larger pattern of divine generosity. We can trust that God provides what is needed for our well-being and the flourishing of those around us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- of healings?1×
- of healing,1×
- of healing1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἰαμάτων;1×
- ἰαμάτων,1×
- ἰαμάτων1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 12:9
to another faith by the same Spirit, and to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit,
This verse lists gifts of healings alongside faith, showing that specific remedies are distributed by the same Spirit for the common good.
-
I Corinthians 12:28
God has set some in the assembly: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracle workers, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, and various kinds of languages.
Here Paul places gifts of healings in a hierarchy of roles, indicating they are a structured part of God’s design for the assembly.
-
I Corinthians 12:30
Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with various languages? Do all interpret?
The rhetorical question highlights that not every member possesses this specific gift, emphasizing the diversity of resources within the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word iama mean?
Where does iama appear in the Bible?
How is iama different from other words for healing?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
I Corinthians 3 verses
to another faith by the same Spirit, and to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit,
I Corinthians 12:28God has set some in the assembly: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracle workers, then gifts of…
I Corinthians 12:30Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with various languages? Do all interpret?