### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἐπιβλέπω (epiblépō, `{{G1914}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition ἐπί (epí), meaning "upon" or "towards," and the verb βλέπω (blépō, `{{G991}}`), meaning "to see" or "to look." This etymological foundation suggests a directed, focused gaze. However, the semantic range of ἐπιβλέπω extends beyond mere visual perception, imbuing the act of looking with a specific disposition or intention. The base definition highlights this nuance: "to gaze at (with favor, pity or partiality)." This means the word describes not just *what* is seen, but *how* it is seen, reflecting an attitude of the observer. This attitude can be one of benevolent regard, compassionate concern, or, conversely, prejudiced discernment based on superficial criteria. The context is crucial for determining the precise nuance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The New Testament employs ἐπιβλέπω in two distinct contexts, vividly illustrating its dual semantic range:
1. **Divine Favor/Regard:** In [[Luke 1:48]], Mary, in her Magnificat, declares, "For he has *regarded* (ἐπιβλέπω) the low estate of his handmaiden; for behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed." Here, ἐπιβλέπω signifies God's compassionate and favorable attention to Mary's humble status. It is not a look of indifference or judgment, but one of active recognition and benevolent condescension. God's "looking upon" Mary's lowliness signifies His grace and His choice to work through the humble, overturning human expectations of greatness. This usage aligns with the "favor" or "pity" aspect of the definition.
2. **Human Partiality/Prejudice:** In [[James 2:3]], the apostle condemns the practice of showing favoritism within the Christian assembly: "and you *pay attention* (ἐπιβλέπω) to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, 'You sit here in a good place,' while you say to the poor man, 'You stand over there,' or, 'Sit down at my feet'..." Here, ἐπιβλέπω describes a discriminatory gaze, one that judges and honors based on outward appearance (wealth and social status) rather than intrinsic worth or spiritual equality. This usage clearly aligns with the "partiality" aspect of the definition, highlighting a sinful human tendency to discriminate.
These two occurrences provide a powerful contrast: God's righteous and merciful regard for the humble versus humanity's sinful and prejudiced regard for the outwardly impressive.
### Related Words & Concepts
The root verb βλέπω (blépō, `{{G991}}`) is a general term for seeing or perceiving, but ἐπιβλέπω adds the dimension of directedness and disposition. Other related terms include:
* ὁράω (horáō, `{{G3708}}`): A more general verb for seeing, often implying perception or understanding.
* θεάομαι (theáomai, `{{G2300}}`): To behold, gaze upon, often with a sense of wonder or observation.
* οἰκτίρω (oiktírō, `{{G3627}}`): To have pity or compassion, aligning with the "pity" aspect of ἐπιβλέπω in Luke.
* εὐδοκέω (eudokéō, `{{G2106}}`): To be well-pleased, to take delight in, which resonates with God's "favor" in Luke.
* προσωπολημπτέω (prosōpolēmptéō, `{{G4380}}`) and προσωπολημψία (prosōpolēmpsia, `{{G4382}}`): These terms, meaning "to show partiality" and "partiality" respectively, are direct conceptual parallels to the usage of ἐπιβλέπω in James 2. James 2:1 explicitly condemns προσωπολημψία as contrary to faith in Jesus Christ, and ἐπιβλέπω in [[James 2:3]] describes the very action of showing such partiality.
The word ἐπιβλέπω thus connects to broader theological concepts such as divine condescension, human humility, justice, mercy, and the sin of prejudice.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἐπιβλέπω is profound, serving as a powerful lens through which to understand divine character and human failing.
In the context of God's action (Luke), ἐπιβλέπω underscores God's active engagement with humanity, particularly His compassionate regard for the lowly and overlooked. It reveals a God who does not judge by outward appearances or worldly status but rather elevates the humble and uses the weak to accomplish His purposes. This speaks to the core of God's grace, His reversal of human values, and His commitment to justice for the marginalized. It is a divine gaze that bestows dignity and blessing.
Conversely, in the context of human behavior (James), ἐπιβλέπω exposes a critical flaw in human fallenness: the tendency to discriminate and show favoritism based on superficial criteria like wealth or appearance. James condemns this as a direct violation of the "royal law" of love ([[James 2:8]], "You shall love your neighbor as yourself"). To "look upon" someone with partiality is to deny their inherent worth as an image-bearer of God and to betray the impartial love commanded by Christ. It reveals a heart that is not truly transformed by the gospel, which calls for radical equality and love among believers. The word thus highlights the stark contrast between the righteous, merciful discernment of God and the sinful, prejudiced discrimination of humanity.
### Summary
ἐπιβλέπω (epiblépō, `{{G1914}}`) signifies a directed gaze that carries a specific disposition: favor, pity, or partiality. Its two New Testament occurrences vividly illustrate this semantic range. In [[Luke 1:48]], it describes God's benevolent and compassionate "looking upon" Mary's humble state, signifying divine grace and the reversal of worldly values. In [[James 2:3]], it denotes human "paying attention" to outward appearances with sinful partiality, condemning discrimination within the Christian community as a violation of the royal law of love. The word thus serves as a powerful theological contrast, highlighting God's impartial, merciful regard for the humble versus humanity's often prejudiced and discriminatory gaze, urging believers to emulate God's character in their interactions.
TRV