### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ésoptron**, represented by `{{G2072}}`, means a **mirror** or **glass**. It appears only **2 times** in **2 unique verses** in the Bible. The word's definition indicates a device used for looking into, serving as a tool for reflection.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical contexts, `{{G2072}}` is used metaphorically to explain spiritual realities. In 1 Corinthians, the term describes the limitations of our current perception, stating, "now we see through a **glass**, darkly" [[1 Corinthians 13:12]], which contrasts our present knowledge with the perfect clarity to come. In the book of James, it is used to illustrate the ineffectiveness of hearing God's word without acting on it. A hearer who is not a doer is compared to a man who observes his own **natural** `{{G1078}}` face in a **glass** and then forgets what he saw [[James 1:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to illuminate the use of `{{G2072}}` in scripture:
* `{{G991}}` **blépō** (to look at): This is the verb for the act of seeing. It is used in the phrase "we **see** through a glass," defining the action associated with the mirror's reflection [[1 Corinthians 13:12]].
* `{{G135}}` **aínigma** (darkly): Meaning an "obscure saying" or "enigma," this word describes the quality of the image seen in the **glass**. It highlights the unclear nature of our current spiritual understanding [[1 Corinthians 13:12]].
* `{{G4163}}` **poiētḗs** (doer): This word stands in direct contrast to a mere "hearer" `{{G202}}`. The purpose of looking into the **glass** of God's word is to become a **doer**, not someone who fails to act on the reflection they see [[James 1:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G2072}}` lies in its metaphorical function.
* **Imperfect Knowledge:** The **glass** symbolizes the partial and indirect nature of our present spiritual sight. Our current understanding is described as seeing "**darkly**" `{{G135}}`, a temporary condition that will be replaced by the direct vision of seeing "face to face" [[1 Corinthians 13:12]].
* **The Word as a Mirror:** The **glass** is used as a figure for the "word" `{{G3056}}` of God. Like a mirror, the word reveals a person's true condition. Its purpose is to lead to self-examination and action [[James 1:23]].
* **Hearing vs. Doing:** The metaphor in James emphasizes that merely observing oneself in the mirror of the word is insufficient. The one who is blessed is not the forgetful "**hearer**" `{{G202}}`, but the obedient "**doer**" `{{G4163}}` who responds to what is revealed [[James 1:23]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2072}}` is more than just a physical **mirror**. It is a key biblical symbol for the contrast between our current, limited perception and the future, complete knowledge we will have in God's presence. It also powerfully illustrates that God's word is a reflection of our true selves, demanding a response of active obedience, not just passive observation.
TRV