### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **haploûs**, represented by `{{G573}}`, means **single** or clear. Its base definition suggests something folded together. It appears only **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible. Though rare, its use in a powerful metaphor gives it significant weight, illustrating the concept of a focused and undivided spiritual perspective.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G573}}` describes the state of the eye as a metaphor for a person's inner condition. Both Matthew and Luke record the teaching that "The light of the body is the eye" ([[Matthew 6:22]]; [[Luke 11:34]]). In this context, if the eye is **single** `{{G573}}`, the result is that the "whole body" will be **full of light** `{{G5460}}`. The word is contrasted directly with an **evil** `{{G4190}}` eye, which causes the body to be "full of darkness" [[Luke 11:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G573}}`:
* `{{G3788}}` **ophthalmós** (the eye): This is the direct subject described as **single**. It is used figuratively to represent a person's spiritual vision or focus [[Matthew 6:22]].
* `{{G4983}}` **sōma** (the body): This word refers to the whole person, which is directly affected by the state of the eye. The condition of the eye determines whether the entire **body** is illuminated or in darkness [[Luke 11:34]].
* `{{G4190}}` **ponērós** (evil): Used as the direct opposite of **single** in this context. It describes a hurtful or culpable state that, when applied to the eye, leads to darkness [[Luke 11:34]].
* `{{G5460}}` **phōteinós** (full of light): This describes the outcome of having a **single** eye. It signifies being well-illuminated or lustrous, both literally and figuratively [[Matthew 6:22]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G573}}` is found in its metaphorical application of vision to one's spiritual life.
* **Undivided Focus:** The core idea of **single** is a singular, uncomplicated focus. When one's spiritual "eye" is fixed with this kind of clarity, it allows the light of God to illuminate the entire being.
* **The Source of Inner Light:** The teaching positions the eye as the lamp of the **body** `{{G4983}}`. A **single** eye allows light in, but an **evil** `{{G4190}}` eye blocks it, resulting in a body that is **full of darkness** `{{G4652}}`.
* **A Condition of the Heart:** The state of being **single** is not merely an outward action but an inward condition. It reflects a heart that is clear and devoted, as opposed to one that is divided, duplicitous, or wicked.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G573}}` is a concise but potent term. Though used only twice, it is central to a key biblical metaphor about spiritual perception. By describing the eye as **single**, it teaches that an undivided and clear focus is the very channel through which a person's entire life becomes **full of light** `{{G5460}}`. It highlights the critical connection between inner purity and spiritual illumination.
TRV