### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hórama**, represented by `{{G3705}}`, is derived from ὁράω and refers to **something gazed at, i.e. a spectacle (especially supernatural):--sight, vision.** It appears **12 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible. This term is used almost exclusively to describe supernatural visions through which God communicates or reveals something significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3705}}` is frequently used to describe moments of divine instruction and revelation. Paul received a **vision** at night of a man from Macedonia praying for help, which prompted his missionary journey there [[Acts 16:9]]. The Lord spoke directly to Paul "by a **vision**" to encourage him to continue speaking without fear [[Acts 18:9]]. Similarly, Cornelius the centurion **saw** "in a **vision** evidently... an angel of God" [[Acts 10:3]]. The term is not limited to messages; Jesus referred to the transfiguration as "the **vision**" which the disciples were not to tell anyone about [[Matthew 17:9]]. It can also simply denote a supernatural "sight" that causes wonder, as when Moses **wondered** "at the **sight**" of the burning bush [[Acts 7:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the nature of a `{{G3705}}`:
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō** (properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by implication, (in the perfect tense only) to know): This verb often describes the act of perceiving a vision. For instance, Cornelius "saw in a **vision**" an angel of God [[Acts 10:3]].
* `{{G1611}}` **ékstasis** (a displacement of the mind, i.e. bewilderment, "ecstasy":--+ be amazed, amazement, astonishment, trance): This word describes the state of being in which a vision can be received. Peter explains that "in a **trance** I saw a **vision**" [[Acts 11:5]].
* `{{G1760}}` **enthyméomai** (to be inspirited, i.e. ponder:--think): This term highlights the cognitive response to a vision, as seen when Peter "**thought** on the **vision**" to understand its meaning [[Acts 10:19]].
* `{{G1380}}` **dokéō** (to think; by implication, to seem): This word can describe the uncertainty of experiencing a vision, as when Peter was rescued from prison and at first "**thought** he saw a **vision**," not knowing if the event was real [[Acts 12:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3705}}` is significant, particularly in the book of Acts, as it demonstrates God's active guidance of the early church.
* **Divine Communication:** A **vision** is a primary method for God to speak directly to individuals. The Lord spoke to Paul "by a **vision**" [[Acts 18:9]] and called to Ananias "in a **vision**" [[Acts 9:10]].
* **Guidance for Mission:** These visions provide critical direction for the expansion of the gospel. After Paul saw the **vision**, his group "assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them" [[Acts 16:10]].
* **Supernatural Revelation:** The term signifies an experience beyond ordinary sight that reveals heavenly realities. This can be an angelic message [[Acts 10:3]], a moment of divine glory like the transfiguration [[Matthew 17:9]], or a perplexing sight like the great sheet Peter saw [[Acts 11:5]].
* **Confirmation of God's Plan:** Visions serve to confirm God's work. Ananias is told in a vision that Saul has also "seen in a **vision** a man named Ananias coming in," preparing both men for their divine appointment [[Acts 9:12]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3705}}` is more than just a dream or an idea; it is a divinely initiated spectacle or sight intended to convey a message or command. Its usage illustrates how God directly communicated with, directed, and encouraged key figures in the New Testament. The word underscores a theology where God is not distant but actively intervenes in human affairs through supernatural revelation to accomplish His purposes.
TRV