### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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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