χωλός

lame, deprived of a foot

Definition

The Greek adjective χωλός primarily means 'lame' or 'crippled,' describing a person with a physical impairment that affects their ability to walk, often involving a withered or paralyzed limb (Matthew 15:30-31). In a literal sense, it refers to those who are deprived of the full use of a foot or leg, a condition frequently healed by Jesus as a sign of the messianic age (Luke 7:22). Figuratively, it can imply spiritual or moral lameness, as suggested in Hebrews 12:13 where believers are urged to make straight paths for their feet 'so that the lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed.' The word consistently denotes a state of physical brokenness that requires divine intervention for restoration.

Biblical Usage

χωλός is used exclusively in the Gospels and one metaphorical instance in Hebrews. In the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke), it appears in narratives of Jesus' healing miracles, often in lists of the afflicted who are brought to him (Matthew 15:30, Luke 14:13) or as evidence of his messianic mission (Matthew 11:5, Luke 7:22). It also occurs in Jesus' teaching about radical discipleship, using hyperbole about cutting off a foot if it causes sin (Matthew 18:8, Mark 9:45). The sole non-literal use is in Hebrews 12:13, applying the concept to spiritual weakness within the community.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek root χωλός, meaning 'limping' or 'lame.' It is a primary adjective with no clear earlier Indo-European root, and its form remained consistent in classical and Koine Greek. Related terms include the verb χωλόω (chōloō, G5560 - to make lame) and the noun χωλότης (chōlotēs, lameness). The core concept of physical impairment in walking is central and unchanged.

Semantic Range

χωλός is theologically significant as it highlights Jesus' fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's ministry to heal the broken (Isaiah 35:6, echoed in Luke 7:22). The healing of the lame demonstrates the inbreaking of God's kingdom, reversing the effects of the Fall and sin. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by connecting these miracles to their prophetic backdrop and emphasizing physical restoration as a sign of spiritual salvation. The metaphorical use in Hebrews 12:13 further links physical imagery to the community's call to support and heal spiritually weak believers.

In first-century Jewish and Greco-Roman culture, lameness was a severe physical disability that often relegated individuals to begging and social marginalization (Acts 3:2). They were considered ritually imperfect and, in some Jewish traditions, barred from certain priestly functions (Leviticus 21:18). Jesus' healing of the lame not only restored physical function but also reintegrated them into society and religious life, challenging social stigmas and demonstrating a kingdom that prioritizes the outcast.

ἀνάπηρος (anapēros, G376) — denotes a more general crippling or maiming, often of the hand or foot; παραλυτικός (paralytikos, G3885) — specifically refers to one paralyzed or palsied, emphasizing inability to move rather than a limping gait.

Word Details

Scripture References