### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun λεπίς (lepís), Strong's number `{{G3013}}`, carries the core meaning of "a scale" or "a flake." Its etymological root implies a connection to the act of "peeling" or "shedding," suggesting something that detaches or is removed as a thin layer or fragment. This primary definition points to a covering or a surface layer that can be shed, akin to the scales of a fish or a reptile, or a thin piece of material that breaks off. The semantic range is quite narrow, focusing on this specific physical characteristic of a thin, detachable layer.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term λεπίς (lepís) appears only once in the New Testament, found in the book of Acts:
* **[[Acts 9:18]]**: "And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized."
This solitary occurrence is profoundly significant. The context is the dramatic conversion of Saul (who would become Paul) on the road to Damascus. After his encounter with the risen Christ, Saul is struck blind for three days. Ananias is then sent by God to lay hands on him. At Ananias's touch, "scales" (λεπίδες, the plural of λεπίς) fall from Saul's eyes, and his sight is immediately restored.
Literally, these "scales" describe a physical manifestation of his temporary blindness, which was then miraculously removed. The imagery is vivid and concrete, depicting a physical obstruction being shed. However, the spiritual implications are paramount. The falling of the physical scales powerfully symbolizes the removal of Saul's spiritual blindness and prejudice, which had prevented him from recognizing Jesus as the Messiah and had fueled his persecution of Christians. His physical restoration of sight is inextricably linked to his spiritual enlightenment and conversion.
### Related Words & Concepts
While λεπίς (lepís) itself has a singular occurrence, its context connects it to several crucial biblical concepts and related Greek terms:
* **Blindness and Sight**: The most direct thematic link is to the concepts of physical and spiritual blindness (e.g., `{{G5185}}` τυφλός, *typhlos*, "blind"; `{{G5186}}` τυφλόω, *typhloō*, "to blind") and their antithesis, sight and understanding (e.g., `{{G991}}` βλέπω, *blepō*, "to see"; `{{G3708}}` ὁράω, *horaō*, "to perceive"). Saul's physical blindness was a direct consequence of encountering divine light, and its removal signified the opening of his spiritual eyes.
* **Healing and Restoration**: The miraculous nature of the event links λεπίς to the broader themes of divine healing (e.g., `{{G2390}}` ἰάομαι, *iaomai*, "to heal") and restoration, a common motif in Jesus's ministry and the early church.
* **Revelation and Unveiling**: The falling of the scales functions as a personal "apocalypse" or unveiling (cf. `{{G602}}` ἀποκάλυψις, *apokalypsis*) for Saul. It signifies the removal of a covering that obscured truth, allowing him to perceive the reality of Christ. This resonates with the concept of a "veil" over the hearts of those who do not understand the Old Covenant, which is removed in Christ (cf. [[2 Corinthians 3:14-16]]).
* **Transformation and Conversion**: The removal of the scales is the pivotal moment marking Saul's radical transformation from persecutor to apostle, a central theme of Acts.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of λεπίς, particularly in its unique occurrence, is profound. It serves as a powerful visual metaphor for the transformative power of God's grace and truth.
1. **Divine Intervention and Healing**: The falling of the scales is a direct act of God's intervention, demonstrating His power to heal and restore, not just physically but spiritually. It underscores that true spiritual sight is a gift from God.
2. **Spiritual Enlightenment**: The physical blindness and its removal symbolize the spiritual blindness that afflicts humanity, particularly those who resist God's truth. Saul, despite his zealous religious devotion, was spiritually blind to the true identity of Jesus. The "scales" represented his prejudice, misinterpretations, and resistance to the Gospel. Their removal signifies the opening of his spiritual eyes to the light of Christ.
3. **Radical Conversion**: This event marks the definitive moment of Saul's conversion. The physical restoration of his sight is intrinsically tied to his spiritual transformation, leading to his baptism and subsequent call to apostleship. It illustrates that true conversion involves a radical reorientation of one's perception and understanding.
4. **Preparation for Ministry**: With the scales removed, Paul was not only able to see physically but also to "see" God's plan and his role within it. This miraculous healing prepared him for his monumental ministry as the apostle to the Gentiles, allowing him to preach the very Christ he once persecuted.
### Summary
The Greek word λεπίς (lepís, `{{G3013}}`), meaning "scale" or "flake," appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Acts 9:18]]. In this pivotal passage, it describes the literal scales that fell from Saul's eyes, restoring his physical sight after his encounter with the risen Christ. This singular occurrence carries immense theological weight, serving as a powerful metaphor for the removal of spiritual blindness and prejudice. The falling of the scales symbolizes divine healing, spiritual enlightenment, and the radical conversion that transformed Saul, the persecutor, into Paul, the apostle. It underscores God's transformative power to open eyes, both physically and spiritually, enabling individuals to perceive and embrace His truth, thereby equipping them for His service.
TRV