κλινάριον (klinarion)
klinarion
a cot
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word klinarion refers to a small bed or cot, serving as a diminutive form of the more common kline, which denotes a larger couch or reclining chair. In the New Testament, this term appears only once, in Acts 5:15, where it describes the specific type of bedding on which sick individuals were placed.
This single occurrence highlights a detail about early Christian practice and public perception. The text notes that people brought the ill into the streets so that Peter’s shadow might fall on them as he passed by. The use of klinarion suggests these were portable or modest sleeping arrangements, emphasizing the humility and accessibility of the apostles’ ministry rather than luxury.
The word underscores the physical reality of healing in the early church. It was not merely a spiritual metaphor but involved tangible care for bodies in need. By specifying a small cot, the narrative paints a picture of ordinary people receiving extraordinary attention, grounding the miraculous events in everyday life.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word klinarion describes a small, simple cot or bed. In Acts 5:15, it refers to the modest bedding used by those seeking healing from Peter. This detail reminds us that God’s power works through ordinary, everyday objects and situations. It was not a grand palace but a humble street corner where faith met need.
For your life today, this word encourages you that your current circumstances do not limit God’s reach. Whether you are in a place of comfort or struggle, the same Lord who used a simple cot to demonstrate His mercy is present with you now. You do not need perfect conditions to experience His care; He meets us right where we are.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- cots1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- κλιναρίων1×
Key Verses
-
Acts 5:15
They even carried out the sick into the streets and laid them on cots and mattresses, so that as Peter came by, at least his shadow might overshadow some of them.
This verse uses the word to specify that the sick were placed on simple cots, highlighting the humility and accessibility of Peter's ministry.