[Greek] ἀνορθόω (anorthoō), [Latin] erecta est, [Latin] revertare: to build up again, to restore, to straighten up, to make erect (from a bent position, to set straight, to lift up, to encourage; Lk.13:13, Acts 15:16, Heb.12:12
Christ Healing an Infirm Woman: painting by James Tissot (1886)
Background information:
Greek Hellenism: This term means to set up again, to rebuild, to restore to heath (well being), to set right again, and to correct. Isocrates’ To Phillip 5.64 states “And not only did he rebuild the walls of his country, he restored Athens to the same high repute from which she had fallen.” Euripides’ The Suppliants 1228 states “Lady Athena, I will harken to your word, for you set me up, so that I do not astray.” Euripides’ Bacchae 364 states “But follow me with the ivy-clad staff, and try to support my body, and I will try to support yours.” Herodotus’ The Histories 1.19 states “But when the messengers came to Delphi, the Pythian priestess would not answer them until they restored the temple of Athena.”
Old Testament: This term means to raise up, to comfort, to be firm, to stand, to be ready, to restore, to testify, to increase, and to multiply. It is because the thing is established by God, and God will shortly bring it to pass (Gen.41:32). And they made ready the present against Joseph came at noon (Gen.43:16). The Lord raises up those who are bowed down (Psa.146:8). I call heaven and earth to witness against you this day (Deu.4:26). They testified against them: but they would not give ear (2Chr.24:19). God blessed them saying, ‘Be fruitful and multiply’ (Gen.1:22). The water prevailed and increase greatly upon the earth (Gen.7:18).
New Testament: This term means to make straight (straighten up), to build up again, and to strengthen (to encourage). A woman, bent and afflicted with a spirit for 18 years, was healed by Jesus. She later stood up straight. In His plans to redeem humanity, God will rebuild the fallen house of David. Jesus is a descendent of David whom will redeem man. God sometimes uses trials as discipline. Yet these trials may bring about the fruits of righteousness. We are encouraged to strengthen our hands and needs. Walking enables one to put one’s teachings into practice.
Scripture:
“After this I shall return and build the fallen hut of David; from its ruins I shall rebuild it and raise it up again.” Acts 15:16
God will redeem man through Jesus, the descendant of the house of David.
“He laid his hands on her, and she at once stood up straight and glorified God.” Lk.13:13
The woman, stricken lame by a spirit for 18 years, was healed by Jesus. The woman was able to walk.
“So strengthen your drooping hands and your weak knees.” Heb.12:12
Some are called to endure struggles in our path. Sometimes, these struggles may be for our benefit. One must be still be strong in the face of struggles. Walking allows one to put one’s faith into practice.
Etymology: The Greek prefix ortho- means straight, correct, and upright. Orthodoxy is straight teaching. An orthodontist straightens teeth.
Conclusion:
Orthodox, orthodontist, orthopedic, erect, revert, reversion
In the Greek Hellenistic era, this term is used quite extensively. Rebuilding and restoring temples is an important theme. More nuanced examples include restoring one’s health and reputation.
In the Old Testament, I was surprised by the very many references for this term. To raise up a family name means extending the family line for generations. Therefore, increasing and multiplying was a highly held Old Testament cultural value. Theses values continue in the New Testament culture.
In the New Testament, God redeems (builds up) man through the family (house) of David. Jesus is a descendent of David’s line. God sometimes permits and also provides encouragement for those who are called to face struggles and persecution. Jesus heals (brings up) a lame woman.
This is just the straight up truth from me.