middle voice from a compound of κατά and a derivative of ὀπτάνομαι (compare ἔσοπτρον); to mirror oneself, i.e. to see reflected (figuratively):--behold as in a glass.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katoptrízomai**, represented by `{{G2734}}`, is a unique term meaning to **behold as in a glass**. It is defined as mirroring oneself or seeing something reflected, used figuratively in its scriptural context. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its sole usage highly significant for understanding spiritual transformation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its single biblical appearance, `{{G2734}}` describes a transformative process for believers. The verse states, "But we all, with open face **beholding as in a glass** the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image" [[2 Corinthians 3:18]]. This act of beholding is not a passive glance but an active, focused contemplation of the Lord's glory, which results in a fundamental change within the believer. The word links the act of seeing to the process of becoming.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its immediate context help clarify the meaning of `{{G2734}}`:
* `{{G343}}` **anakalýptō** (open): This term, meaning to `unveil`, is used to describe the "open face" with which believers behold the Lord's glory, suggesting a directness that was previously unavailable [[2 Corinthians 3:18]].
* `{{G1391}}` **dóxa** (glory): Defined as `glory (as very apparent)`, this is the object of the beholding. The transformation is a progression "from **glory** to **glory**" [[2 Corinthians 3:18]], indicating a continuous increase in reflecting the Lord's character.
* `{{G1504}}` **eikṓn** (image): Meaning a `likeness` or `resemblance`, this is the outcome of the transformation. Believers are changed into the very **image** they are viewing [[2 Corinthians 3:18]].
* `{{G3339}}` **metamorphóō** (changed): This powerful word means `to transform` or `metamorphose`. It describes the profound, internal change that happens as a result of beholding the Lord's glory [[2 Corinthians 3:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2734}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful application:
* **Transformation through Beholding:** The word establishes a core principle of Christian life: seeing leads to becoming. The act of beholding the **glory** `{{G1391}}` of the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` is the mechanism by which believers are **changed** `{{G3339}}` into His **image** `{{G1504}}`.
* **Unveiled Contemplation:** The description "with open face" `{{G343}}` `{{G4383}}` points to the new covenant reality where the veil of separation is removed in Christ, allowing for direct contemplation of God's glory [[2 Corinthians 3:14]].
* **The Work of the Spirit:** This transformation is not a product of human effort but is accomplished "by the **Spirit** `{{G4151}}` of the Lord" [[2 Corinthians 3:18]]. It identifies the divine agent responsible for the believer's progressive change.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2734}}` is far more than a word for seeing in a mirror. Though used only once, it encapsulates a profound theological truth: that by beholding the **glory** `{{G1391}}` of the **Lord** `{{G2962}}` with an unveiled heart, believers are actively and progressively **changed** `{{G3339}}` into His **image** `{{G1504}}`. This entire process, described in [[2 Corinthians 3:18]], is accomplished by the power of the Holy **Spirit** `{{G4151}}`, illustrating the deep connection between spiritual sight and sanctification.
TRV