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.
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.
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.
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.
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