The concept of Weak in Christianity
In Christianity, the term "Weak" encompasses various meanings, highlighting the importance of support for those in need, such as the poor and outcasts. It describes individuals lacking strength, either physically or emotionally, who require care and concern from others. Christians are encouraged to respect the scruples of the weaker brethren and provide aid based on biblical teachings. Additionally, the weak are seen as deserving compassion and support, emphasizing the role of spiritual growth and connection within the community.
Synonyms: Feeble, Delicate, Infirm, Powerless, Soft, Impotent, Vulnerable
In Swedish: Shvag; In Malay: Lemah; In Finnish: Heikko; In Spanish: ¶Ùé²ú¾±±ô; In German: Schwach; In Dutch: Zwak; In French: Faible
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Weak'
From: Hymns for Christian Devotion
(1) This refers to people who are not strong, and the subject will not disregard them, showing kindness and concern for the vulnerable.[1] (2) This signifies a condition of lacking strength, either physically or emotionally, where the person requires support.[2]
From: Expositions of Holy Scripture
(1) This phrase refers to the people, as the arching sides of His cave sheltered David from Saul, emphasizing the protection from enemies.[3] (2) This term refers to Christians with scrupulous consciences, whose views the stronger brethren are encouraged to respect and to avoid actions that could cause them to stumble.[4]
From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)
(1) This term describes individuals who require assistance, support, or aid, and are in need of care, such as the poor or outcast members of a community, emphasizing the importance of helping them.[5] (2) This term refers to the group that the presbyter or elder, otherwise known as the bishop or overseer, had the duty to help.[6]
From: The Complete Sayings of Jesus
(1) The people who should be supported, according to Paul's instructions, showing that he showed them how they should support them.[7]
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) This term refers to those who were physically debilitated, and who experienced a restoration of their physical strength.[8] (2) This describes Paul's self-perception or portrayal of himself as someone vulnerable, as a way to connect with and influence others.[9] (3) This is the ability of supplication to transform or strengthen those who are vulnerable, representing empowerment and spiritual growth.[10]
From: The Existence and Attributes of God
(1) The text references that the exhortation was to bear with the infirmities of the weak, which was pressed by the example of Christ and the patience of God.[11]
From: Summa Theologica (English translation)
(1) The weak are mentioned in the context of the crozier, which is used to uphold those who are weak, as the text indicates.[12]