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G939 · Greek · New Testament
βάσις
Basis
Noun, feminine
Foot, step, base, foundation

Definition

The Greek noun basis literally means a base, step, or foot — the foundational part that enables standing or walking. In the New Testament it appears once, in Acts 3:7, where Peter takes the lame man by the hand and immediately 'his feet and ankles became strong' — literally, his bases (feet) were strengthened. The word emphasizes the foundational, weight-bearing function of the foot.

Usage & Theological Significance

The healing of the lame man in Acts 3 is the first miracle of the church age, immediately following Pentecost. The man had been lame from birth — never having stood on his own basis. His miraculous healing at the Beautiful Gate declared that the resurrection power of Jesus Christ was now at work through the apostles. The man leaping and praising God pictured the joy of the redeemed walking in new life.

Key Bible Verses

Acts 3:7Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles (baseis) became strong.
Acts 3:8He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God.
Acts 3:6Then Peter said, 'Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.'
Isaiah 35:6Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy.
Luke 13:11A woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all.

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External Resources

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