### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **lepís**, represented by `{{G3013}}`, is defined as a flake or **scale**, derived from a root word meaning "to peel." It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its single appearance highly significant within its narrative context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G3013}}` is found in the account of Saul's conversion. After his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, Saul is left blind. In the pivotal moment of his healing, the scripture states, "And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been **scales**" [[Acts 9:18]]. This event marks the physical restoration of his sight, which immediately precedes his baptism and the beginning of his new life and ministry.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are found in the same verse, providing a complete picture of this miraculous event:
* `{{G634}}` **apopíptō** (to fall off): This verb describes the action of the scales, emphasizing the sudden and complete nature of the healing as they "fall off" Saul's eyes [[Acts 9:18]].
* `{{G3788}}` **ophthalmós** (the eye): This is the part of the body from which the scales fell, signifying that the affliction and its removal were directly related to his **eyes** and his ability to see [[Acts 9:18]].
* `{{G308}}` **anablépō** (to recover sight): This word describes the immediate result of the scales falling away. The removal of the physical barrier allowed Saul to **recover sight**, fulfilling the purpose of Ananias's visit [[Acts 9:18]].
### Theological Significance
While rare, the theological weight of `{{G3013}}` is derived from its powerful symbolism in Saul's transformation.
* **Spiritual Blindness:** The physical **scales** are widely understood to represent the spiritual blindness that characterized Saul before his conversion. Their removal signifies a new ability to see the truth of the Gospel, as described in the mission to "open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light" [[Acts 26:18]].
* **Divine Healing:** The event is a clear miracle. The act of receiving sight is presented throughout the Gospels as a sign of divine power, as when Jesus's disciples are told to report that "the blind see" [[Luke 7:22]]. The falling of the **scales** serves as a tangible sign of God's direct intervention.
* **Radical Transformation:** The removal of the **scales** is the turning point for Saul. It is the physical evidence of an inner change, immediately followed by his baptism [[Acts 9:18]]. It marks the end of his old life and the beginning of his apostolic calling.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3013}}` is a word whose significance far outweighs its frequency. Its single appearance in scripture provides a powerful and memorable image of transformation. As the literal **scales** that fell from Saul's eyes, it serves as a crucial symbol for the removal of spiritual blindness, the power of divine healing, and the dramatic beginning of a new life dedicated to God.
TRV