### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kammýō**, represented by `{{G2576}}`, means **to shut down, i.e. close the eyes**. It is a rare term, appearing only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Its use describes a deliberate act of closing one's eyes to willfully avoid spiritual perception and understanding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In both of its biblical occurrences, `{{G2576}}` is used within an identical quotation to describe a people resistant to God's message. The act of closing the eyes is presented as a self-imposed blindness, a direct consequence of a heart that has "waxed gross" `{{G3975}}`. This action is part of a sequence of sensory and spiritual rejection, done specifically "lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them" ([[Matthew 13:15]], [[Acts 28:27]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of spiritual rejection surrounding `{{G2576}}`:
* `{{G3975}}` **pachýnō** (to thicken, i.e. (by implication) to fatten (figuratively, stupefy or render callous)): This describes the condition of the heart that leads to the closing of the eyes, a state of being calloused or stupefied [[Matthew 13:15]].
* `{{G917}}` **baréōs** (heavily (figuratively)): This adverb describes the dullness of hearing, which runs parallel to the act of closing the eyes, indicating a comprehensive sensory shutdown [[Acts 28:27]].
* `{{G4920}}` **syníēmi** (to put together, i.e. (mentally) to comprehend): This is the understanding with the heart that is intentionally avoided by closing the eyes and dulling the ears [[Matthew 13:15]].
* `{{G1994}}` **epistréphō** (to revert (literally, figuratively or morally)): This refers to the conversion or turning back to God that is the ultimate outcome being resisted through the act of spiritual blindness [[Acts 28:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2576}}` centers on the concept of willful spiritual resistance.
* **Active Rejection:** The use of **kammýō** emphasizes that spiritual blindness is not a passive state but an active, deliberate choice. The people "have closed" their own eyes, taking personal responsibility for their lack of perception [[Matthew 13:15]].
* **Impediment to Healing:** The act of closing the eyes is the first link in a chain that prevents salvation. It blocks sight, which in turn blocks understanding with the heart, which then prevents conversion and the ultimate act of divine healing [[Acts 28:27]].
* **Symptom of a Hardened Heart:** The word highlights that external acts of spiritual deafness and blindness are symptoms of an internal problem. It is because the people's heart has "waxed gross" `{{G3975}}` that they resort to closing their eyes to the truth [[Matthew 13:15]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2576}}` is a specific and powerful verb that denotes more than a physical action. It serves as a stark metaphor for intentional spiritual blindness. Found in two key passages, it illustrates that refusing to see God's truth is a deliberate choice originating from a calloused heart, effectively blocking the path to understanding, conversion, and divine healing. It underscores the theme of human accountability in the rejection of God's message.
TRV