The Greek word apoblépō, represented by G578, is defined as looking away from everything else to intently regard something. It is derived from ἀπό and βλέπω. This word appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, highlighting its specific and powerful application. In its biblical use, it is translated as "have respect."
The single use of G578 is found in Hebrews 11:26, where it describes a profound act of faith. The verse states that an individual esteemed the "reproach of Christ" as greater riches than the "treasures in Egypt." The reason given for this valuation is that "he had respect unto the recompence of the reward." The word G578 here signifies a focused, unwavering gaze on a future, divine promise, looking away from the immediate, earthly wealth of Egypt.
Several related words from its context in Hebrews 11:26 help clarify the meaning of G578:
- G3405 misthapodosía (recompence of reward): This is the object of the focused gaze, defined as a "requital (good or bad)." It is the divine reward that G578 looks toward.
- G2344 thēsaurós (treasure): This represents what is being looked away from. Defined as "a deposit, i.e. wealth (literally or figuratively)," it refers to the earthly treasures of "Egypt" G125 that are considered lesser in value Hebrews 11:26.
- G2233 hēgéomai (esteem): This word, meaning "to deem, i.e. consider," precedes the action of G578. It establishes the value judgment that leads to looking intently at the reward Hebrews 11:26.
- G3680 oneidismós (reproach): This is what is paradoxically valued over earthly riches. It is defined as "contumely" and is linked directly to "Christ" G5547, showing that the focus of G578 is on a spiritual reality Hebrews 11:26.
The theological weight of G578 is concentrated in its singular appearance, illustrating a cornerstone of faith.
- Valuing the Eternal: The use of G578 demonstrates a conscious choice to value the "reproach of Christ" G3680 above the "treasures in Egypt" G2344. This act of looking away from the temporal to the eternal is a central theme of a life of faith Hebrews 11:26.
- Focused Hope: The word signifies an intense focus on a future promise. To "have respect" G578 is to fix one's attention on the "recompence of the reward" G3405, trusting in a divine outcome rather than present circumstances.
- Faith in Action: G578 is not a passive glance but an active, intentional regard. It is the practical expression of an inner conviction, where one's perspective is governed by God's promise rather than worldly allure.
In summary, G578 provides a powerful and concise illustration of faith. Though used only once, it encapsulates the idea of deliberately looking away from the transient world to fix one's gaze intently on the eternal reward promised by God. Its context in Hebrews 11:26 shows that this focused regard is the result of esteeming Christ's reproach as being of greater value than any earthly treasure, defining a life oriented toward a divine recompence.
TRV