### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hórasis**, represented by `{{G3706}}`, refers to the act of gazing, an external aspect, or an inspired appearance, often translated as **sight** or **vision**. It appears 4 times across 3 unique verses, indicating its specific use in contexts of divine revelation and appearance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3706}}` is used to describe both supernatural revelations and the appearance of heavenly beings. In Acts, it is part of a prophecy where young men "shall see **visions**" as a result of the outpouring of the Spirit [[Acts 2:17]]. In the book of Revelation, the term describes John's experience of seeing the horses "in the **vision**" [[Revelation 9:17]]. It is also used to describe the magnificent appearance, or **sight**, of the one seated on the throne and the surrounding rainbow, comparing them to precious stones [[Revelation 4:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of seeing and divine communication:
* `{{G3700}}` **optánomai**: This word means to gaze at something remarkable and is the verb used in the prophecy that young men "shall see" visions [[Acts 2:17]].
* `{{G1492}}` **eídō**: This verb, meaning to see or perceive, is used by John to state how he witnessed the events of his revelation: "thus I saw the horses in the **vision**" [[Revelation 9:17]].
* `{{G1798}}` **enýpnion**: Meaning a dream or a vision in sleep, this term is used in parallel with `{{G3706}}` to distinguish between the **visions** of the young and the **dreams** of the old [[Acts 2:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G3706}}` is tied to the means by which God reveals himself.
* **Sign of the Spirit:** Its use in Acts highlights that inspired **visions** are a direct consequence of the Holy Spirit being poured out upon all flesh in the last days, marking a new mode of divine communication [[Acts 2:17]].
* **Mode of Revelation:** The word establishes the framework for understanding apocalyptic literature, where a **vision** is the medium through which a prophet receives and understands heavenly truths that are otherwise inaccessible [[Revelation 9:17]].
* **Describing Divine Glory:** In Revelation, `{{G3706}}` is used to articulate the visual splendor of God's throne, translating the indescribable into understandable terms of **sight** and appearance [[Revelation 4:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3706}}` is a specific term that goes beyond ordinary sight. It denotes either a supernatural, prophetic **vision** granted by the Holy Spirit or the perceptible **aspect** and glorious appearance of a divine reality. The word is crucial for understanding how God makes the heavenly realm and his prophetic will known to humanity.
TRV