### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἀποβλέπω (apoblépō, `{{G578}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition ἀπό (apo, "away from") and the verb βλέπω (blepō, "to look, to see"). This etymological construction inherently conveys the primary sense of "looking away from" something in order to focus intently on something else. It signifies a deliberate shift of one's gaze and attention. Unlike a mere casual glance, ἀποβλέπω implies a focused, purposeful, and often exclusive regard. The base definition provided, "to look away from everything else, i.e. (figuratively) intently regard," highlights this singular focus. In its figurative application, it extends beyond mere physical sight to encompass mental consideration, careful evaluation, or a profound respect and anticipation. The nuance is not simply "to see," but "to fix one's gaze upon" or "to direct one's attention toward" something, thereby implicitly turning away from other potential distractions or objects of interest.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word ἀποβλέπω (apoblépō, `{{G578}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the profound context of the "faith hall of fame" in Hebrews chapter 11. Specifically, [[Hebrews 11:26]] states concerning Moses: "considering the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he was looking to the reward." Here, the phrase "he was looking to the reward" translates the Greek ἐπέβλεπεν γὰρ εἰς τὴν μισθαποδοσίαν (epeblepen gar eis tēn misthapodosian), where ἀποβλέπω (apoblépō) is used.
In this singular occurrence, the verb powerfully describes Moses' profound act of faith and discernment. Moses, as a pivotal figure in salvation history, made a conscious and radical choice. He "looked away from" the immense, tangible, and immediate treasures and privileges of the Egyptian court—the very pinnacle of worldly power and wealth—and instead "looked intently toward" (ἀποβλέπω) the unseen, future "reward" (μισθαποδοσίαν, `{{G3406}}`) that awaited him. This "reward" is implicitly linked to the "reproach of Christ," suggesting a prophetic understanding of suffering and vindication associated with the Messiah. Moses' action was not impulsive but a deliberate act of prioritization based on spiritual insight. He did not merely glance at the reward; he fixed his gaze upon it, allowing it to dictate his choices and values. This single use of ἀποβλέπω underscores the intentionality and profound spiritual calculus involved in Moses' decision, serving as a prime example of faith that prioritizes eternal realities over temporal advantages.
### Related Words & Concepts
To fully appreciate ἀποβλέπω (apoblépō, `{{G578}}`), it is helpful to consider its relationship to other Greek words for "seeing" or "looking":
* **βλέπω (blepō, `{{G991}}`):** The root verb, meaning "to see," "to look," or "to perceive." While βλέπω is a general term for visual perception, ἀποβλέπω adds the crucial nuance of *looking away from* other things *in order to focus* on one specific object.
* **ὁράω (horaō, `{{G3708}}`):** Another common verb for "to see," often implying perception or understanding.
* **θεωρέω (theōreō, `{{G2334}}`):** To gaze at, behold, or observe, often with contemplation or careful scrutiny.
* **ἀτενίζω (atenizō, `{{G816}}`):** To stare intently, to fix one's gaze upon something without wavering. This word shares the intensity of focus with ἀποβλέπω but lacks the "looking away from" component.
* **προσβλέπω (prosblepō, `{{G4312}}`):** To look at, to face, to regard. While it implies direction, it doesn't necessarily carry the strong sense of *turning away from* other things that ἀποβλέπω does.
The concept embedded in ἀποβλέπω is closely related to spiritual discernment, prioritizing eternal values, and the nature of faith itself. It speaks to the ability to fix one's hope and attention on unseen realities, demonstrating a profound understanding of true worth. This involves a conscious turning away from worldly enticements and a steadfast focus on God's promises and future recompense.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of ἀποβλέπω (apoblépō, `{{G578}}`) in [[Hebrews 11:26]] holds immense theological significance as a paradigm of faith. Moses' act of "looking to the reward" exemplifies a core principle of biblical faith: the prioritization of the unseen, eternal realities over the visible, temporal advantages.
1. **Faith as Discernment:** Moses' choice demonstrates faith not merely as belief, but as a profound spiritual discernment that recognizes the transient nature of worldly glory and the enduring value of God's promises. He saw beyond the immediate and fixed his gaze on the ultimate.
2. **Sacrifice and Reward:** The passage highlights the willingness to embrace "the reproach of Christ"—a prophetic foreshadowing of suffering and rejection for God's purposes—as a greater treasure than all earthly riches. This underscores the theological truth that following God often involves sacrifice and suffering, but these are infinitely outweighed by the divine reward.
3. **The Object of Hope:** The "reward" is not merely a material gain but a spiritual inheritance and vindication. For the Christian, this reward is ultimately found in Christ Himself and the full realization of His kingdom. Moses' gaze points believers towards the eschatological hope that fuels endurance and perseverance.
4. **A Model for Believers:** Moses' example, illuminated by ἀποβλέπω, serves as an enduring model for all believers. It challenges us to evaluate what truly holds our attention and allegiance. Are we distracted by the "treasures in Egypt" of our own age, or are we, like Moses, deliberately "looking away from" them to fix our gaze intently upon Christ and the eternal recompense? This word encapsulates the essence of living by faith, where one's ultimate focus determines one's present values and actions.
### Summary
The Greek word ἀποβλέπω (apoblépō, `{{G578}}`) is a powerful verb signifying a deliberate, intense gaze fixed upon a particular object, necessitating a turning away from all other distractions. Its single New Testament occurrence in [[Hebrews 11:26]] profoundly illustrates Moses' faith. Moses, by an act of spiritual discernment, "looked away from" the immense, immediate allure of Egyptian wealth and power, and instead "looked intently toward" the future, unseen "reward" associated with the "reproach of Christ." This word encapsulates a crucial aspect of biblical faith: the intentional prioritization of eternal, spiritual realities over temporal, material advantages. It serves as a timeless theological model for believers, urging them to fix their gaze on Christ and the promised recompense, thereby discerning true value and living a life shaped by enduring hope.
TRV