a prolonged form of a primary verb; to look closely at, i.e. (by implication) perceive (literally or figuratively); by extension to visit:--behold, look (upon), see. Compare ὀπτάνομαι.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **theáomai**, represented by `{{G2300}}`, means to look closely at, perceive, or behold. As a prolonged form of a primary verb, it implies a careful and sustained observation. It appears **24 times** in **24 unique verses**, often describing an act of seeing that goes beyond a mere glance to a deeper perception or experience.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2300}}` is used in several key contexts. It is used by the apostles to describe their experience as eyewitnesses to Christ's life and glory, as in "we **beheld** his glory" [[John 1:14]] and "which we have **looked upon**" [[1 John 1:1]]. The word also describes the visual confirmation of a supernatural event, such as the disciples who had **seen** Jesus go into heaven [[Acts 1:11]]. Conversely, it can describe a more superficial kind of observation, such as performing acts "to be **seen** of men" [[Matthew 23:5]], highlighting the motive of the one being watched. It is also used to state a profound theological truth: "No man hath **seen** God at any time" [[1 John 4:12]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide nuance to the act of seeing and perceiving:
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (to see): This word can mean to see physically or to know something intellectually. It is used for seeing good works [[Matthew 5:16]] but also for knowing with certainty, as in "we **know** that all things work together for good" [[Romans 8:28]].
* `{{G3708}}` **horáō** (to discern clearly): Often used in parallel with `{{G2300}}`, this term emphasizes clear discernment, whether physical or mental. John combines these sensory experiences in his testimony: "which we have heard, which we have **seen** with our eyes, which we have looked upon" [[1 John 1:1]].
* `{{G3140}}` **martyréō** (to be a witness, testify): This word highlights the outcome of having seen something significant. The act of seeing with `{{G2300}}` often leads to testifying, as stated in [[1 John 4:14]]: "And we have seen and do **testify** that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world."
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2300}}` is significant, particularly in establishing the basis of Christian faith.
* **Eyewitness Foundation:** The word is crucial to the apostolic claim that their testimony is based on direct observation. John the Apostle repeatedly uses it to validate his message, stating what he and others have **looked upon** [[1 John 1:1]] and **seen** [[1 John 4:14]], grounding the gospel in historical reality.
* **Perceiving Divine Glory:** `{{G2300}}` is used not just for seeing a person, but for perceiving the divine reality in Jesus. When John writes, "we **beheld** his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father" [[John 1:14]], he is describing a spiritual perception of Christ's true identity.
* **The Link Between Sight and Belief:** The act of seeing is often presented as a catalyst for faith. After seeing the works of Jesus, many "believed on him" [[John 11:45]]. Conversely, a failure to believe those who had **seen** the risen Christ was cause for rebuke [[Mark 16:14]], showing that this eyewitness seeing carried an expectation of being believed.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2300}}` is more than a simple word for seeing. It conveys a sense of intentional, focused observation that leads to a deeper perception or understanding. From watching men perform acts for public approval [[Matthew 6:1]] to the apostles beholding the glory of God in the flesh [[John 1:14]], **theáomai** underscores that what is seen can be a powerful testimony, a basis for belief, and a revelation of divine truth.
TRV