To the surprise of the Pharisees, Jesus came to come and help those who were lost. He taught that Gentiles can have a relationship with their Jewish God. He healed many people of their illnesses and diseases. That’s why I want to take a look at the definition of the word infirmity in Hebrew and Greek.
But first, let’s take a look at the definition of infirmity in the 1828 Noah Webster’s Dictionary:
“1. An unsound or unhealthy state of the body; weakness; feebleness. Old age is subject to infirmities.
2. Weakness of mind; failing; fault; foible.
A friend should bear a friend’s infirmities.
3. Weakness of resolution.
4. Any particular disease; malady; applied rather to chronic, than to violent diseases.
5. Defect; imperfection; weakness; as the infirmities of a constitution of government.”
All scriptures are taken from NKJV unless otherwise marked.
What Does The Word ‘Infirmity’ Mean In Hebrew?
davah- to be in menstruation cycle.
chalah- to be weak, sick, affilicted.
The first appearance of this word occurs in Genesis 48:1.
“Now it came to pass after these things that Joseph was told, “Indeed your father is sick”; and he took with him his two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim.”
– Genesis 48:1
There are many times where this word is translated as sick, but really means ‘weak’ in the context. For example:
- Joram is described as sick, but he’s actually weak (2 Kings 8:29).
- In Song of Solomon 2:5, “sick with love” more than likely means “weak with passion”.
machaleh- sickness.
Related: What Does The Word ‘Heal’ Mean In Hebrew and Greek?
What Does The Word ‘Infirmity’ Mean In Greek?
astheheia- feebleness; malady.
This word means lacking strength, weakness, or infirmity. It’s translated into:
- sickness (John 11:4)
- infirmities (Matthew 8:17)
- diseases (Acts 28:9)
- weakness (1 Corinthians 2:3)
“I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling.”
– 1 Corinthians 2:3
Conclusion
In conclusion, the word infirmity definitely means some sort of illness or sickness. The good news is that healing is available to us by Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit. There are many scriptures on healing and His power is still the same.
That’s the definition of the word infirmity in Hebrew and Greek. I pray you found this article helpful. If so, please share this content. Also, feel free to share any thoughts in the comments below. Thanks for reading!
Looking for similar content? Check out these:
Thanks so much for the enlightenment. I had a dream about the word Infirmity. God speaks to me in dreams. I’ve been praying for the healing of a friend and for the healing of my veins in my legs. I already know I’m healed in the spirit! I know the manifestation is on it’s way in Jesus name, Amen 🙏🏻
Does infirmity only mean sickness in the body? Can it also mean hesitation,uncertainty indecision as we make decisions concerning the word of God.
Amen Ramona, you’ve already got it, believe it, speak it, and it’s yours. Jesus completed the work of healing for us, all we have to do is obtain it by faith and watch it manifest.