### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ptýsma**, represented by `{{G4427}}`, translates to **spittle**. It is derived from the verb πτύω, meaning to spit. This term is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the biblical text, making its single appearance highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G4427}}` is found in the account of Jesus healing a blind man in [[John 9:6]]. In this narrative, after Jesus had **spoken** `{{G2036}}`, he **spat** `{{G4429}}` on the ground. He then **made** `{{G4160}}` **clay** `{{G4081}}` from the **spittle** `{{G4427}}` and **anointed** `{{G2025}}` the **eyes** `{{G3788}}` of the **blind man** `{{G5185}}` with this mixture. The spittle is presented as a physical element that Jesus uses in a creative act to perform a miracle.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of the event described in [[John 9:6]]:
* `{{G4429}}` **ptýō** (to spit): This is the primary verb from which **ptýsma** is derived. It describes the direct action Jesus took to produce the spittle ([[Mark 7:33]], [[Mark 8:23]]).
* `{{G4081}}` **pēlós** (clay): This is the substance that Jesus **made** `{{G4160}}` using the **spittle**. The narrative repeatedly mentions this **clay** as the medium for the anointing ([[John 9:6]], [[John 9:11]], [[John 9:14]]).
* `{{G2025}}` **epichríō** (to smear over): This word, meaning to anoint by smearing, describes precisely how the clay made from the spittle was applied to the man's eyes ([[John 9:6]], [[John 9:11]]).
* `{{G5185}}` **typhlós** (blind): This identifies the condition of the man being healed. The term is used not only for physical blindness but also for a state of spiritual inability to see [[Revelation 3:17]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4427}}` is entirely derived from its role in this one miracle, which carries profound theological weight.
* **Creative Authority:** By making **clay** `{{G4081}}` from the **spittle**, Jesus demonstrates a creative power, reminiscent of a potter's authority over the clay to make a vessel for honor [[Romans 9:21]].
* **Messianic Fulfillment:** The act of giving sight to the **blind** `{{G5185}}` is a direct fulfillment of the messianic work Jesus came to do, as described in scripture [[Luke 4:18]].
* **Physical Action for Spiritual Truth:** The physical healing of the **blind man** `{{G5185}}` illustrates a deeper spiritual reality. Jesus stated he came so that "they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind" [[John 9:39]], contrasting physical sight with spiritual blindness.
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G4427}}` is a minor word in terms of frequency, its context makes it noteworthy. The **spittle** is not merely a biological substance but an element transformed by Jesus in a powerful demonstration of His authority. It becomes part of the **clay** `{{G4081}}` used to fulfill His mission of bringing sight to the **blind** `{{G5185}}`, illustrating his power to create, heal, and reveal spiritual truth through physical means.
TRV