The Greek word kōphós, represented by G2974, is a term meaning blunted, used figuratively to describe a person who is deaf, dumb, or speechless. It appears 14 times across 12 unique verses in the Bible. Its usage consistently points to a physical incapacity of hearing or speech, often in the context of miraculous healing.
In the biblical narrative, G2974 is used in the Gospels to describe specific conditions healed by Jesus. It is frequently translated as deaf, especially when Jesus's miracles are listed as signs of his authority, as in "the deaf hear" (Matthew 11:5; Luke 7:22). The word is also translated as dumb or speechless, particularly when healing is associated with casting out a devil (Matthew 9:33; Luke 11:14). The term can describe a dual affliction, as when Jesus rebukes a "dumb and deaf spirit" Mark 9:25. It can also refer to a temporary condition, as when Zechariah remained speechless after a vision in the temple Luke 1:22.
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of G2974:
- G191 akoúō (to hear): This verb represents the direct reversal of the state of being deaf. Its use in the phrase "the deaf hear" Mark 7:37 signifies the miraculous restoration of this sense.
- G2980 laléō (to talk, i.e. utter words): As the counterpart to being mute, this word describes the act of speaking that is restored. For example, after an exorcism, "the dumb spake" Matthew 9:33.
- G216 álalos (mute): This term is used alongside G2974 to describe an inability to speak. In one account, Jesus rebukes a "Thou dumb and deaf spirit" Mark 9:25, directly linking the two words.
- G3424 mogilálos (hardly talking, i.e. dumb (tongue-tied)): This word provides a more specific description of a speech issue, used to describe a man brought to Jesus who was deaf and "had an impediment in his speech" Mark 7:32.
The theological weight of G2974 is demonstrated through its usage in key moments of Jesus's ministry:
- Sign of Messianic Authority: The healing of those who are G2974 is presented as primary evidence of Jesus's identity. When asked for a sign, Jesus points to his works, including that "the deaf hear" (Matthew 11:5; Luke 7:22).
- Overcoming Spiritual Forces: The inability to speak or hear is sometimes linked to demonic influence. The healing of a dumb man is achieved by casting out a devil Matthew 9:32, and a spirit itself is identified as "dumb and deaf" Mark 9:25, framing the miracle as a victory over spiritual oppression.
- Comprehensive Restoration: G2974 is often listed with other severe afflictions like being lame, blind, or maimed Matthew 15:30. Its healing is part of a larger theme of divine restoration, prompting the people to say, "He hath done all things well" Mark 7:37.
In summary, G2974 kōphós is more than a simple medical description; it is a term that carries significant theological weight within the Gospel narratives. It describes a condition that Jesus miraculously overcomes, serving as undeniable evidence of His Messianic power and authority over both physical ailments and spiritual forces. The use of G2974 highlights a core theme of Jesus's ministry: bringing complete restoration by making the deaf to hear and the dumb to speak Mark 7:37.
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