The Greek word ópsis, represented by G3799, refers to sight or, by implication, the visage or an external show. It appears 3 times across 3 unique verses in the Bible. Based on its usage, the term can be translated as appearance, countenance, or face.
In the biblical narrative, G3799 is used in three distinct ways. It refers to the literal, physical face of a person, as when Lazarus emerged from the tomb with his face bound by a napkin John 11:44. It is also used to describe the glorious and divine countenance of the glorified Christ, which shone like the sun in its strength Revelation 1:16. Finally, it is used in a metaphorical sense to mean a superficial appearance, with the command to not judge based on this external show John 7:24.
Several related words provide context for the concept of judgment beyond appearance:
- G2919 krínō (properly, to distinguish, i.e. decide (mentally or judicially); by implication, to try, condemn, punish): This word for "judge" is used twice in the command not to judge by G3799 but to instead make a righteous judgment John 7:24.
- G1342 díkaios (equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively):--just, meet, right(-eous)): This term describes the "righteous" quality of judgment that should be employed, in contrast to judging by outward appearance John 7:24.
- G2920 krísis: This word is used in the command to "judge righteous judgment," setting a standard that goes beyond the surface level of what is seen with G3799 John 7:24.
The theological weight of G3799 is seen in the contrasts it presents.
- Superficial vs. Righteous Judgment: The word highlights a key theological directive not to "judge according to the appearance" John 7:24. This establishes a principle of spiritual discernment that must look past the external to see what is true and just.
- The Glorified Christ: G3799 is used to describe the divine glory of Jesus's countenance, which was like the sun shining in its strength, a powerful image of His post-resurrection majesty and authority Revelation 1:16.
- Humanity and Resurrection: The term's use for Lazarus's face grounds it in the context of human mortality, immediately preceding the miracle of his resurrection, which demonstrates Christ's power over death John 11:44.
In summary, G3799 is a multifaceted word that encompasses more than a simple physical feature. It serves to illustrate the difference between the human (the face of Lazarus), the divine (the countenance of Christ), and the moral (the superficiality of appearance). It is a key term in the biblical exhortation to move beyond surface-level evaluation toward true and righteous judgment.
TRV