ἀνορθόω

I make straight again, rear again, restore

Definition

The verb ἀνορθόω means to make straight again, set upright, restore, or rebuild. In its three New Testament occurrences, it carries both physical and metaphorical senses. In Luke 13:13, it describes Jesus physically straightening a woman who was bent over for 18 years, a direct act of healing. In Acts 15:16, James quotes Amos 9:11 (LXX), using the word metaphorically for God's promise to 'rebuild' the fallen tent of David, indicating eschatological restoration. In Hebrews 12:12, it is used in an exhortation to 'strengthen' or 'straighten up' weak hands and knees, applying the concept to spiritual and moral renewal.

Biblical Usage

ἀνορθόω is used three times in the New Testament, each in a distinct context. It appears in a narrative of physical healing (Luke 13:13), in a quotation of Old Testament prophecy about national restoration (Acts 15:16), and in a parametric exhortation for spiritual strengthening (Hebrews 12:12). This progression shows the word's application from concrete, physical acts to corporate and then personal spiritual renewal. It is used by Luke (Gospel and Acts) and in the Epistle to the Hebrews.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀνά (ana, often meaning 'up' or 'again') and the verb ὀρθόω (orthoō, 'to make straight or upright'). ὀρθόω itself comes from the adjective ὀρθός (orthos, 'straight, upright'). Thus, the compound meaning is 'to set upright again' or 'to restore to a straight condition.' It implies a corrective action, returning something to its proper, intended state.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects physical healing, the fulfillment of prophecy, and personal sanctification under the theme of divine restoration. In Luke 13:13, it demonstrates Jesus' authority to restore brokenness, a sign of the inbreaking kingdom. In Acts 15:16, it anchors the inclusion of the Gentiles in God's plan to 'rebuild' the Davidic line through Christ. In Hebrews 12:12, it calls believers to active participation in their spiritual renewal, empowered by grace. Understanding this word highlights how God's restorative work encompasses body, covenant history, and the believer's walk.

In a Greco-Roman context, the idea of 'making straight' had architectural and medical connotations, such as setting a broken bone or rebuilding a collapsed structure. The Old Testament background in Amos 9:11, quoted in Acts, uses the metaphor of a fallen 'tent' or dynasty, which would resonate with Jewish listeners as a promise of national revival and stability under a restored Davidic king.

ἰάομαι (iaomai, G2390) — focuses specifically on healing or curing. ἀποκαθίστημι (apokathistēmi, G600) — emphasizes restoration to a former or original condition. οἰκοδομέω (oikodomeō, G3618) — means to build or edify, often in a constructive, non-corrective sense.

Word Details

Scripture References