### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **aisthánomai**, represented by `{{G143}}`, means to **apprehend** or **perceive**, particularly through the senses. Its use in scripture is highly specific, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse**. This rarity highlights a focused application of the term, centered on the concept of sensory or spiritual perception.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single biblical use of `{{G143}}` is found in [[Luke 9:45]], where it describes the disciples' inability to grasp one of Jesus's sayings. The verse states that "it was hid from them, that they **perceived** it not." In this context, the failure to perceive is not presented as a simple lack of attention but as a state of being veiled from understanding. Their confusion was so profound that they "feared to ask him of that saying" [[Luke 9:45]], showing that their lack of perception led to inaction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the same verse help to clarify the meaning of `{{G143}}`:
* `{{G50}}` **agnoéō** (not to know): Used in parallel, this word signifies that the disciples did "not understand" the saying, establishing the context of ignorance in which their failure to perceive occurred [[Luke 9:45]].
* `{{G3871}}` **parakalýptō** (hide): This word explains the cause of their lack of perception; the meaning of the saying was "hid" or veiled from them [[Luke 9:45]].
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō** (to be alarmed, fear): This describes the disciples' emotional reaction to their inability to perceive the truth, as they "feared" to seek clarification [[Luke 9:45]].
* `{{G2065}}` **erōtáō** (to ask, request): The disciples' fear prevented them from taking the next logical step, which was "to ask" Jesus for the meaning of the saying [[Luke 9:45]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G143}}` is derived entirely from its singular, specific context. It underscores the nature of spiritual insight.
* **Veiled Truth:** The use of `{{G143}}` in [[Luke 9:45]] demonstrates that spiritual perception can be actively prevented or "hid" `{{G3871}}`. This implies that understanding divine truth is not solely dependent on human effort or intellect.
* **The Consequence of Non-Perception:** The disciples' failure to perceive led directly to fear `{{G5399}}`. This illustrates how a lack of spiritual clarity can result in feelings of alarm and an inability to engage further with God's word.
* **Apprehension Beyond the Senses:** While the base definition refers to apprehending by the senses, its biblical application points to a deeper form of spiritual apprehension. The disciples heard the words but could not perceive their meaning.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G143}}` provides a crucial insight despite its single appearance. While it means to perceive, its sole use in [[Luke 9:45]] describes a moment of failed perception. It highlights that understanding divine revelation is not a given; it can be veiled, and the inability to perceive a spiritual truth can lead to fear and hesitation rather than deeper inquiry. The word emphasizes that true spiritual apprehension is distinct from merely hearing or seeing.
TRV