### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ophthalmós**, represented by `{{G3788}}`, is the foundational term for the **eye**. It appears **102 times** across **86 unique verses**, highlighting its significance in both literal and figurative contexts. Beyond its direct reference to the physical organ of sight, it encompasses the concept of **vision** and can figuratively denote **envy**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3788}}` is used in multiple contexts. Literally, it refers to the physical organ, as when Jesus had compassion and touched the **eyes** of the blind to restore their sight [[Matthew 20:34]]. Figuratively, it represents spiritual perception and understanding. This is seen in the mission to open people's **eyes** and turn them from darkness to light [[Acts 26:18]]. The word also carries a moral dimension, where a "single" **eye** fills the body with light, but an "evil" **eye** leads to darkness [[Matthew 6:23]]. In prophetic visions, it is used symbolically, such as the Lamb having seven **eyes**, which are the seven Spirits of God [[Revelation 5:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the function and state of the **eye**:
* `{{G991}}` **blépō** (to look at): This verb describes the action of seeing, the primary function of the **eye**. It is used when stating, "blessed are your **eyes**, for they see" [[Matthew 13:16]].
* `{{G5185}}` **typhlós** (blind): As the direct opposite of sight, this word describes the condition of being unable to see. Its connection is clear in the question, "Can a devil open the **eyes** of the blind?" [[John 10:21]].
* `{{G2595}}` **kárphos** (mote): This term for a small speck is used in Jesus' teaching about judgment, highlighting improper perception, as in "why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's **eye**" [[Matthew 7:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3788}}` is significant, often contrasting physical sight with spiritual reality.
* **Spiritual Perception:** The **eye** is a metaphor for spiritual understanding or the lack thereof. Scripture speaks of the need for the "**eyes** of your understanding being enlightened" [[Ephesians 1:18]], while also describing a state where God has "blinded their **eyes**... that they should not see" [[John 12:40]].
* **Gateway for Sin:** The **eye** is identified as a source of temptation and worldly desire. The "lust of the **eyes**" is listed as being from the world, not the Father [[1 John 2:16]]. Jesus emphasizes this by stating that if a right **eye** causes offense, it is better to pluck it out than for the whole body to be cast into hell [[Matthew 5:29]].
* **Divine Omniscience:** The term is used to describe God's all-seeing nature. "The **eyes** of the Lord are over the righteous" [[1 Peter 3:12]], and nothing is hidden from His sight, as all things are "opened unto the **eyes** of him with whom we have to do" [[Hebrews 4:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3788}}` **ophthalmós** extends far beyond a simple anatomical term. It is a crucial biblical concept representing perception, understanding, and one's spiritual state. From the healing of the physically blind to the warning against the "lust of the **eyes**," the word is central to teachings on righteousness, sin, and spiritual enlightenment. It illustrates the profound difference between merely looking at the world and truly seeing with spiritual **vision**.
TRV