Miraculous Healing: σφυδρόν (Strong’s G4974: sphydron) Reveals Divine Restoration Power
Strong’s G4974: From Greek roots meaning “ankle” or “joint,” σφυδρόν appears in the healing narrative of Acts 3, where Peter heals the lame man. This anatomical term highlights the precise location of divine healing power.
U- Unveiling the Word
σφυδρόν specifically refers to the ankle or ankle bone, gaining particular significance in the miraculous healing account in Acts 3. Its precise anatomical meaning emphasizes the concrete nature of divine healing. The early church saw in this word evidence of God’s power to bring complete physical restoration. Today, it reminds us that the Messiah’s healing power addresses specific physical needs while pointing to His greater work of spiritual restoration.
N – Necessary Information
- Greek Word: σφυδρόν, sphydron, /sfü-dro’n/
- Pronunciation Guide: “SFEE-dron” (stress on first syllable)
- Part of Speech: Noun
Etymology:
- Related to ancient Greek medical terminology
- Possibly connected to words indicating movement or strength
- -ον (-on) neuter noun ending
D – Defining Meanings
- Ankle
- Ankle bone
- Ankle joint
Translation Options:
- “Ankle” – Most common modern equivalent
- “Ankle bone” – Emphasizes the anatomical structure
- “Ankle joint” – Highlights the functional aspect
E – Exploring Similar Words
- ποῦς (pous) /poos/ – foot – See G4228
- σκέλος (skelos) /ske’-los/ – leg – See G4628
- μέλος (melos) /me’-los/ – member, body part – See G3196
R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
As a noun, σφυδρόν exhibits:
- Case: Nominative, Genitive, Dative, Accusative
- Number: Singular, Plural
- Gender: Neuter
- Declension: Second
Examples:
- Nominative: σφυδρόν (ankle)
- Genitive: σφυδροῦ (of the ankle)
- Dative: σφυδρῷ (to/for the ankle)
- Accusative: σφυδρόν (ankle as object)
S – Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes its anatomical precision. Thayer’s notes its specific use in Acts 3. LSJ documents its medical usage. Vine’s connects it to divine healing. Strong’s highlights its singular New Testament appearance. Moulton and Milligan note its technical medical meaning.
T – Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
Acts 3:7: “Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles [σφυδρόν] became strong.”
A – Analyzing Classical Usage
| Author: Work | Text |
|---|---|
| Hippocrates: On Joints | “The ankle [σφυδρόν] must be properly aligned for healing.” |
| Galen: On Anatomy | “The bones of the ankle [σφυδρόν] support the entire body.” |
| Aristotle: Parts of Animals | “The ankle [σφυδρόν] provides flexibility in movement.” |
N – Noteworthy Summary
σφυδρόν reminds us that divine healing is both specific and complete. This word proclaims the good news that the Messiah’s power reaches every part of our being—physical and spiritual—bringing complete restoration and renewal through His touch.
D – Did You Know?
- The word appears only once in the New Testament
- Ancient medical texts used it extensively in surgical discussions
- Early church writers saw it as evidence of precise divine intervention
Strong’s G4974: From Greek roots meaning “ankle” or “joint,” σφυδρόν appears in the healing narrative of Acts 3, where Peter heals the lame man. This anatomical term highlights the precise location of divine healing power.
Part of speech: Noun
Tags: healing, anatomy, miracles, Acts 3, physical restoration, divine power, Peter’s ministry, medical terminology, temple gate, apostolic signs
Note: While this entry strives for accuracy, readers engaged in critical research should verify citations and keyword occurrences in their Bible translation of choice. For Biblical citations, the F.O.G Bible project recommends Logos Bible software.
