ἀνάπηρος

crippled, maimed

Definition

The adjective ἀνάπηρος describes a person who is severely disabled, specifically crippled or maimed, often in a way that prevents them from walking or working. In the New Testament, it consistently refers to a physical condition of lameness or deformity, implying a state of dependency and social marginalization. Its two occurrences are both in the Gospel of Luke, where it is listed among those who are to be invited to a banquet (Luke 14:13, 21). The term emphasizes a more profound or complete physical impairment than a general word for 'lame'.

Biblical Usage

This word is used exclusively in the Gospel of Luke, appearing twice in the same parable about a great banquet. In Luke 14:13, Jesus instructs his host to invite 'the poor, the crippled (ἀνάπηρος), the lame, and the blind.' In Luke 14:21, the servant reports bringing in 'the poor and crippled (ἀνάπηρος) and blind and lame.' Its usage is patterned within lists of the socially outcast and physically afflicted, highlighting those considered unfit for normal social participation and thus objects of divine and hospitable grace.

Etymology

Derived from the prefix ἀν- (an-, meaning 'not' or 'without') combined with a root related to being whole or complete. The root is likely connected to πηρός (pēros), meaning 'maimed' or 'disabled in a limb.' Thus, ἀνάπηρος intensifies the sense to mean 'completely maimed' or 'utterly crippled,' denoting a severe and debilitating physical condition.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it vividly portrays the objects of God's inclusive grace and the kingdom's reversal of social values. In Luke's banquet parables (Luke 14:13, 21), 'the crippled (ἀνάπηρος)' represent those utterly dependent on mercy, whom religious and social elites might overlook. Jesus' command to invite them underscores the gospel's call to radical hospitality and God's heart for the marginalized. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by emphasizing the depth of their need and the counter-cultural nature of God's invitation.

In first-century Jewish and Greco-Roman culture, severe physical disabilities like being 'crippled' often led to social and religious exclusion. Such individuals were frequently barred from certain temple activities and depended on begging or charity. They were seen as burdens and sometimes even as bearing divine disfavor. Jesus' specific inclusion of the ἀνάπηρος in his teaching directly challenged these cultural assumptions, presenting them as honored guests in God's kingdom.

χωλός (chōlos, G5560) — generally means 'lame' or 'limping,' a broader term for walking disabilities, but not necessarily as severe as ἀνάπηρος. κυλλός (kyllos, G2948) — means 'maimed' or 'crippled,' often used for a deformed hand or foot (Matthew 18:8); it can overlap in meaning but ἀνάπηρος may imply a more total incapacity.

Word Details

Scripture References