### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **cheiragōgéō**, represented by `{{G5496}}`, means **to be a hand-leader, i.e. to guide (a blind person)**. It is a compound word whose base means "hand-leader." It is a rare term, appearing only **3 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, with both instances describing the same pivotal event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The biblical narrative uses `{{G5496}}` exclusively to describe the moment after Saul (later the Apostle Paul) is blinded by a heavenly light on the road to Damascus. His companions must physically guide him, as he is unable to see. In Acts, the account states they **led** him **by the hand** `{{G5496}}`, and brought him into Damascus [[Acts 9:8]]. Paul later recounts this experience, stating that because he could not see "for the glory of that light," he was **led by the hand** `{{G5496}}` by his companions and came into the city [[Acts 22:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the action of being led by the hand:
* `{{G1453}}` **egeírō** (to waken... rouse... raise): This word is used immediately before Saul is led. He first had to **arose** `{{G1453}}` from the earth after being struck down, connecting the act of getting up with the subsequent need for guidance [[Acts 9:8]].
* `{{G1521}}` **eiságō** (to introduce... bring in(-to), (+ was to) lead into): This action immediately follows the guidance. After Saul was led by the hand `{{G5496}}`, his companions **brought** him **into** `{{G1521}}` Damascus, showing a direct movement from one state to a new location [[Acts 9:8]].
* `{{G2064}}` **érchomai** (to come or go): In Paul's retelling, he states that after being led by the hand, he **came** `{{G2064}}` into Damascus, linking the guided journey to the final arrival at his destination [[Acts 22:11]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5496}}` is derived entirely from its singular context in Saul's conversion.
* **Physical Helplessness:** The word underscores Saul's complete physical dependency following his divine encounter. The "glory of that light" left him blind and in need of being guided like a child, a stark contrast to the powerful persecutor he was moments before [[Acts 22:11]].
* **Guided Transition:** Being led by the hand was not aimless; it was a purposeful transition. This act moved Saul from the site of his revelation on the road into Damascus, the city where his healing and commissioning would take place [[Acts 9:8]].
* **Initiation into a New State:** The physical act of being led while blind serves as a powerful metaphor for the beginning of Saul's spiritual transformation. He is moved from a state of self-willed authority to one of complete dependence, marking the first step on his new path.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5496}}` is a highly specific term for guiding a blind person by the hand. Its limited use in Scripture is concentrated on the critical moment of Saul's journey to Damascus. The word powerfully illustrates a state of sudden helplessness and the necessity of being led, serving as the physical prelude to one of the most significant spiritual transformations in the Bible.
TRV