a (middle voice) prolonged form of the primary (middle voice) ; which is used for it in certain tenses; and both as alternate of ὁράω; to gaze (i.e. with wide-open eyes, as at something remarkable; and thus differing from βλέπω, which denotes simply voluntary observation; and from εἴδω, which expresses merely mechanical, passive or casual vision; while θεάομαι, and still more emphatically its intensive θεωρέω, signifies an earnest but more continued inspection; and σκοπέω a watching from a distance):--appear, look, see, shew self.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **optánomai**, represented by `{{G3700}}`, denotes a specific kind of sight: **to gaze**, as if with wide-open eyes at something remarkable. It appears **60 times** across **57 unique verses**. This term is distinct from other Greek words for sight; it is not the simple voluntary observation of *blépō*, nor the passive, mechanical vision of *eídō* `{{G1492}}`, but rather a focused look at a significant or extraordinary appearance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3700}}` is frequently used to describe supernatural manifestations and divine encounters. It describes the appearance of angels to individuals like Moses in the burning bush ([[Acts 7:30]], [[Acts 7:35]]) and Zacharias in the temple [[Luke 1:11]]. The resurrected Christ was **seen** by his disciples on numerous occasions, providing infallible proofs of his life after his passion [[Acts 1:3]]. This specific sight is also eschatological, pointing to the future when believers will **see** the Son of man coming in the clouds [[Matthew 24:30]], when the pure in heart will **see** God [[Matthew 5:8]], and when all humanity will **see** Christ at his return [[Revelation 1:7]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the unique meaning of `{{G3700}}`:
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (to see): This verb often expresses a more general, passive, or casual vision. In some tenses, it is used interchangeably with `{{G3700}}`, but its core sense contrasts with the remarkable gazing implied by **optánomai**. For instance, one must be born again to **see** the kingdom of God [[John 3:3]].
* `{{G2334}}` **theōréō** (to be a spectator of): This term signifies an earnest and more continued inspection. It is used when Jesus says that believers will **see** the Son, which is connected to having everlasting life [[John 6:40]].
* `{{G3706}}` **hórasis** (vision): This noun describes the act of gazing or an inspired appearance. It is directly linked to `{{G3700}}` in the prophecy that young men shall **see** **visions** [[Acts 2:17]].
* `{{G5319}}` **phaneróō** (to render apparent): This word focuses on making something manifest or visible that was previously hidden. It is used in the great mystery of godliness where God was **manifest** in the flesh and **seen** `{{G3700}}` by angels [[1 Timothy 3:16]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3700}}` is significant, highlighting key aspects of divine revelation and Christian hope.
* **Supernatural Witness:** The word validates divine action in history. The resurrected Christ was **seen** by Cephas, the twelve, and over five hundred brethren at once [[1 Corinthians 15:5-6]]. Paul's commission was based on Jesus having **appeared** to him [[Acts 26:16]].
* **Eschatological Promise:** It is the verb of future hope. Believers are promised that they will one day **see** Jesus as he is [[1 John 3:2]], and those who are blessed and pure in heart will **see** God [[Matthew 5:8]]. Ultimately, they will **see** His face in the new creation [[Revelation 22:4]].
* **Revelatory Sight:** `{{G3700}}` is often tied to receiving a divine message or understanding. In Revelation, John witnesses a great **wonder** **appear** in heaven [[Revelation 12:1]], and later the temple of God is opened in heaven and the ark is **seen** [[Revelation 11:19]], signifying profound revelations.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3700}}` is more than a term for ordinary sight. It is reserved for viewing something extraordinary, particularly divine or supernatural appearances. It underpins the reality of God's interventions, from the angel appearing to strengthen Jesus [[Luke 22:43]] to the promise that those who look for Christ will see him **appear** a second time for salvation [[Hebrews 9:28]]. This word elevates the act of seeing to one of profound spiritual significance and testimony.
TRV