The Greek word ἐπιβλέπω (epiblépō), represented by G1914, means to gaze at, often with a specific intent of favor, pity, or partiality. Its base definition is to look upon, regard, have respect to. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses, making each occurrence significant in illustrating a particular kind of focused attention.
In its biblical usage, G1914 highlights the nature of the gaze. In Mary's song, she proclaims that God has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden, signifying a look of divine favor and selection Luke 1:48. Conversely, James uses the term to condemn showing partiality, describing how an assembly might have respect to a wealthy person while scorning the poor James 2:3. In a third context, it is a desperate plea for help, as a father begs Jesus to look upon his only son who is suffering, a request for compassionate intervention Luke 9:38.
Several related words provide context for the use of G1914:
- G1320 didáskalos (an instructor (genitive case or specially):--doctor, master, teacher): This title is used to address Jesus in the plea to look upon the afflicted son, establishing the authority and power of the one being asked Luke 9:38.
- G1189 déomai (to beg (as binding oneself), i.e. petition:--beseech, pray (to), make request): This word for "beseech" or "pray" is paired directly with the request for Jesus to look upon the son, emphasizing the urgency and desperation of the appeal Luke 9:38.
- G2400 idoú (behold, lo, see): This exclamation is used to draw special attention to the events in both Luke 1:48 and Luke 9:38, signaling the importance of God's act of regarding Mary and the father's cry for Jesus to look upon his son.
The theological weight of G1914 is demonstrated in its contrasting applications.
- Divine Favor: The term is used to describe God's sovereign choice to direct His attention. When God regarded Mary, it was not a passive glance but a deliberate act of favor that initiated His redemptive plan Luke 1:48.
- Human Partiality: The word is also used as a stark warning against judgment based on appearances. To have respect to someone because of their fine clothing is presented as a failure to reflect God's impartiality James 2:3.
- A Call for Mercy: In the context of a plea, to look upon someone is to ask for more than observation; it is a request for active compassion and intervention from a position of authority, as when the father appeals to Jesus as Master Luke 9:38.
In summary, G1914 is a precise term that defines a gaze with purpose. Though rare, its usage powerfully contrasts the righteous, favorable regard of God with the flawed, partial respect shown by humans. It encapsulates a profound concept: that the act of "looking upon" someone can be an expression of divine grace, a sin of partiality, or a desperate plea for merciful intervention.
TRV