### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **emblépō**, represented by `{{G1689}}`, means to **look on**, **observe fixedly**, or to **discern clearly**. It appears **13 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible. This term denotes a focused and intentional act of seeing, moving beyond a simple glance to a state of careful observation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G1689}}` often precedes a significant statement or event. It frequently describes the gaze of **Jesus** `{{G2424}}`. For instance, before teaching that all things are **possible** `{{G1415}}` with God, **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` first **beheld** his listeners ([[Matthew 19:26]], [[Mark 10:27]]). This same fixed look is directed at individuals, as when He **beheld** Simon before naming him Cephas [[John 1:42]], and when He **beholding** a man, loved him [[Mark 10:21]]. The power of this gaze is also seen when the Lord **looked upon** Peter, prompting his remembrance [[Luke 22:61]]. The term is also used to describe people **gazing up** into heaven [[Acts 1:11]] and is used as a command to **behold** and learn from the fowls of the air [[Matthew 6:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the specific meaning of an intentional gaze:
* `{{G308}}` **anablépō** (to look up; by implication, to recover sight): This word is used in direct connection with `{{G1689}}`. In a healing, a man is first made to **look up** `{{G308}}` and is then restored, enabling him to **saw** `{{G1689}}` every man clearly [[Mark 8:25]].
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (properly, to see): This general term for seeing is contrasted with the more intense action of `{{G1689}}`. A servant girl first **saw** `{{G1492}}` Peter, and then she **looked** `{{G1689}}` upon him more intently before accusing him [[Mark 14:67]].
* `{{G2300}}` **theáomai** (to look closely at, i.e. (by implication) perceive): This describes the action of perception. The men of Galilee were **gazing up** `{{G1689}}` into heaven after they had **seen** `{{G2300}}` Jesus go [[Acts 1:11]], highlighting a sequence from perceiving an event to staring after it.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1689}}` is demonstrated in its specific contexts. It highlights moments where divine perception and human understanding intersect.
* **The Discerning Gaze of Christ:** The look of **Jesus** `{{G2424}}` is never passive. When He **beheld** individuals, it was a look of discernment that preceded a foundational truth [[Matthew 19:26]], a new identity [[John 1:42]], or a moment of loving instruction [[Mark 10:21]].
* **Seeing with Clarity:** The word is linked to true perception. The blind man's healing is complete when he can **see** `{{G1689}}` clearly [[Mark 8:25]]. Conversely, Paul **could not see** `{{G1689}}` because of the overwhelming **glory** `{{G1391}}` of the light from heaven, tying the limits of physical sight to the presence of divine revelation [[Acts 22:11]].
* **A Call to Deeper Observation:** The command to **behold** `{{G1689}}` is an invitation to consider something carefully to understand a deeper spiritual truth, such as the Heavenly Father's provision [[Matthew 6:26]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1689}}` is more than a simple word for seeing. It describes a purposeful, penetrating gaze that is meant to observe, discern, and perceive with clarity. Whether it is the look of Christ that transforms an individual, a call to find theological truth in nature, or the act of seeing with restored sight, **emblépō** consistently points to a deeper level of awareness that connects the eyes of man with the intent of God.
TRV