ἐξάλλομαι

I leap up

Definition

The verb ἐξάλλομαι means to leap up or spring up, often with a sense of sudden, vigorous, and joyful motion. In its single New Testament occurrence in Acts 3:8, it describes the healed lame man leaping up to his feet, emphasizing a complete physical transformation from a state of incapacity to one of active strength. The prefix ἐξ (out of) intensifies the action, suggesting a leaping 'out from' a prior position or condition. While the immediate context is physical healing, the action is paired with 'walking' and 'praising God,' connecting the physical leap to a spiritual response of joy and worship.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 3:8, to describe the immediate and dramatic action of the lame man healed by Peter and John at the temple gate called Beautiful. The usage is highly specific and narrative, capturing the instantaneous and visible result of a divine miracle. The word is embedded in a sequence of actions ('leaping up,' 'stood,' 'began to walk') that together portray a total restoration.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐξ (ex, meaning 'out of') and the verb ἅλλομαι (hallomai, meaning 'to leap' or 'to jump'). Ἅλλομαι itself is a verb of motion found in classical and Koine Greek. The compound ἐξάλλομαι thus literally means 'to leap out,' intensifying the base action to convey a sudden, forceful springing up from a place or state.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it vividly illustrates the power of Jesus's name to bring instantaneous and complete restoration (Acts 3:6, 16). The 'leaping up' is not just a physical detail but a sign of the inbreaking kingdom of God, reversing the effects of brokenness and enabling full-bodied praise. It connects physical healing to the holistic salvation offered in Christ, showing that redemption impacts the whole person. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting the dramatic, joyful response that authentic encounter with God's power produces.

In the Greco-Roman world, public begging by the disabled was common, and a miraculous healing would be a profound public spectacle. The specific action of 'leaping up' would have been recognized as an impossible feat for a man lame from birth, making it a powerful, undeniable sign. This public demonstration served to authenticate the apostolic message and draw a crowd for Peter's subsequent sermon (Acts 3:11-26).

σκιρτάω (skirtaō, G4640) — to leap or spring, often for joy (e.g., Luke 1:41, 44; 6:23), but without the compound prefix emphasizing 'out from' a prior state.

Word Details

Scripture References