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παραλυτικός (paralutikos)

paralutikos

paralytic

G3885 · Greek · New Testament · 9 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
9 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The adjective paralutikos describes someone physically paralyzed or weakened in their limbs, often implying an inability to walk or move freely. In the Gospels, this term appears nine times, primarily within the Synoptic accounts of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. It refers not merely to a general illness but to a specific condition where bodily strength is lost, leaving the individual dependent on others for movement.

The word’s etymology connects it to the concept of loosening or relaxing, suggesting a loss of tension that normally supports upright posture and action. This physical reality becomes a powerful backdrop in the narratives where Jesus heals such individuals. The condition highlights human vulnerability and the immediate need for intervention, serving as a visible sign of the brokenness that Jesus addresses.

Translators consistently render this term as "paralytic" to preserve the specific medical nature of the affliction. Its frequent appearance in healing stories underscores a recurring theme: Jesus’ authority extends over physical limitations as well as spiritual ones. The text presents these individuals not just as objects of pity, but as recipients of a comprehensive restoration that addresses both body and soul.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

When we encounter the word for 'paralytic' in the Gospels, we are looking at a person whose physical strength has failed them. This term describes someone who cannot move their limbs, leaving them entirely dependent on others for basic mobility. In the ancient world, this condition often meant social isolation and deep vulnerability. Yet, in these stories, Jesus does not see a burden or an object of pity; He sees a person worthy of restoration.

These narratives reveal that Jesus’ care is comprehensive. He addresses both the physical limitation and the spiritual need of the individual. In one account, He tells the man to rise and walk, but before that, He forgives his sins. This shows us that true healing involves the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. We are invited to trust in a Savior who notices our specific struggles and offers complete restoration.

For your faith life, this word reminds you that no limitation is too great for God’s power. Whether you feel physically weak or spiritually stuck, Jesus’ authority extends over every area of your life. You can bring your burdens to Him with confidence, knowing He has the power to lift you up and restore your peace.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 9 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • paralytic;5×
  • a paralytic2×
  • those paralytic;1×
  • paralyzed1×
  • paralytic1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • παραλυτικῷ·5×
  • παραλυτικὸς2×
  • παραλυτικὸν2×
  • παραλυτικούς·1×

Key Verses

  • Matthew 9:2
    Behold, they brought to him a man who was paralyzed, lying on a bed. Jesus, seeing their faith, said to the paralytic, “Son, cheer up! Your sins are forgiven you.”

    This verse highlights Jesus’ authority to forgive sins before performing a physical miracle, linking spiritual healing with bodily restoration for the paralytic.

  • Mark 2:5
    Jesus, seeing their faith, said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven you.”

    Here, Jesus explicitly connects the faith of the friends carrying the man to His direct address of the paralytic’s spiritual condition, showing His insight into hidden needs.

  • Mark 2:9
    Which is easier, to tell the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven;’ or to say, ‘Arise, and take up your bed, and walk’?

    Jesus uses a rhetorical question to demonstrate that forgiving sins is as within His power as commanding physical movement, challenging the religious leaders’ understanding of His authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Greek word paralutikos mean?

The word paralutikos is an adjective that describes someone who is paralyzed or physically weakened in their limbs. It specifically refers to a loss of muscle tension or strength that prevents normal movement, often requiring others to carry the individual.

How is paralutikos different from other words for sickness?

While general terms for illness (like nosos) can refer to any disease, paralutikos specifies a condition of physical immobility. It points to a structural or functional loss of strength in the body, making the person dependent on others for transport and care.

Where does this word appear in the Bible?

This term appears nine times in the New Testament, primarily in the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke). It is most prominent in the accounts of Jesus healing a paralytic who was lowered through a roof (Mark 2) and in reports of Jesus healing many sick people (Matthew 4:24).

Every Occurrence (9 verses across 2 books)

Matthew 4 verses
Matthew 4:24

The report about him went out into all Syria. They brought to him all who were sick, afflicted with various diseases…

Matthew 8:6

saying, “Lord, my servant lies in the house paralyzed, grievously tormented.”

Matthew 9:2

Behold, they brought to him a man who was paralyzed, lying on a bed. Jesus, seeing their faith, said to the paralytic,…

Matthew 9:6

But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins—” (then he said to the paralytic),…

Mark 5 verses