θεραπεία

care, attention, healing

Definition

θεραπεία primarily means 'service' or 'care,' often with a focus on medical treatment and healing. In Luke 9:11, it refers to Jesus healing the sick, emphasizing physical restoration. In Matthew 24:45 and Luke 12:42, it describes the faithful 'service' or 'duties' of a servant managing a household, shifting from medical care to general attentive responsibility. Finally, in Revelation 22:2, the 'leaves of the tree are for the healing (θεραπεία) of the nations,' pointing to ultimate, eschatological restoration and wholeness.

Biblical Usage

θεραπεία is used four times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels and Revelation. In Luke's Gospel (Luke 9:11), it describes Jesus' act of healing the sick. In the parables of Matthew 24:45 and Luke 12:42, it denotes the faithful management and 'care' entrusted to a servant. In Revelation 22:2, it symbolizes the future, complete healing offered to all nations through the tree of life, representing spiritual and physical renewal.

Etymology

Derived from the verb θεραπεύω (therapeuō, G2323), meaning 'to serve,' 'to care for,' or 'to heal.' The root implies attentive service, which naturally extended to medical treatment. The word group is related to θεράπων (therapōn), meaning 'attendant' or 'servant,' highlighting the concept of devoted care.

Semantic Range

θεραπεία is theologically significant as it connects practical service and care with divine healing and ultimate restoration. In Jesus' ministry, it demonstrates his compassion and authority over sickness. In parables, it models faithful stewardship in God's household. In Revelation, it points to the consummation of God's kingdom, where all brokenness is healed, enriching our understanding of salvation as holistic restoration.

In the ancient Greco-Roman world, θεραπεία encompassed a broad range of service, from household duties to medical treatment, which was often intertwined with religious practices. Unlike modern specialized 'therapy,' it implied a personal, attentive relationship. This cultural background helps explain its fluid use in the New Testament, from practical service to miraculous healing.

ἴασις (iasis, G2392) — emphasizes the process or result of healing, often used interchangeably for curing. διακονία (diakonia, G1248) — focuses on service or ministry, especially in a helping or administrative role, less on medical care. θεραπεύω (therapeuō, G2323) — the verb form, meaning to heal, serve, or care for.

Word Details

Scripture References