### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **châzôwn**, represented by `{{H2377}}`, refers to a **vision**. It is defined as a sight (mentally), i.e. a dream, revelation, or oracle. It appears **35 times** across **34 unique verses** in the Bible, primarily in the context of divine communication and prophecy.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{H2377}}` signifies a direct message from God, distinct from human imagination. True visions do not originate from a prophet's own heart, but from the mouth of the LORD [[Jeremiah 23:16]]. Conversely, false prophets speak a "false **vision**" [[Jeremiah 14:14]] or a "vain **vision**" [[Ezekiel 12:24]]. When a genuine **vision** is given, it is often meant for a future "appointed time" and is to be written down plainly so it can be understood [[Habakkuk 2:2]]. The absence of a **vision** is a sign of spiritual decline or judgment, as seen in the days of Samuel when there was "no open **vision**" [[1 Samuel 3:1]] and in Jerusalem where the prophets could find "no **vision** from the LORD" [[Lamentations 2:9]]. The consequences are severe, for "Where there is no **vision**, the people perish" [[Proverbs 29:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of prophetic sight:
* `{{H2372}}` **châzâh** (to gaze at, see): This is the root verb from which **châzôwn** is derived. It is used to describe the act of receiving a vision, as when Isaiah **saw** the **vision** concerning Judah and Jerusalem [[Isaiah 1:1]].
* `{{H5030}}` **nâbîyʼ** (prophet): A **prophet** is the primary recipient of a **vision**. In times of trouble, the people would seek a **vision** of the **prophet** [[Ezekiel 7:26]], and God spoke to His people "by the **prophets**" through multiplied visions [[Hosea 12:10]].
* `{{H2374}}` **chôzeh** (a beholder in vision, seer): This term describes the one who sees. Prophets of Israel who **see** visions of peace when there is no peace are specifically mentioned [[Ezekiel 13:16]].
* `{{H2472}}` **chălôwm** (dream): This word is often used in parallel with **vision**. Daniel was given understanding in all visions and **dreams** [[Daniel 1:17]], and a multitude that fights against Ariel is compared to a **dream** of a night **vision** [[Isaiah 29:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H2377}}` is centered on the nature of divine revelation and prophetic authority.
* **Divine Communication:** A **vision** is a primary vehicle for God's word. The prophetic books of Obadiah [[Obadiah 1:1]], Nahum [[Nahum 1:1]], and Isaiah [[Isaiah 1:1]] are introduced as a **vision**. God speaks to His holy one in a **vision** to provide help and guidance [[Psalms 89:19]].
* **Authenticity and Judgment:** The Bible distinguishes between true and false visions. A false **vision** is characterized as lies and the deceit of the prophet's own heart [[Jeremiah 14:14]]. A lack of **vision** is a form of judgment, where night falls upon the prophets and the day becomes dark over them [[Micah 3:6]].
* **Eschatological Purpose:** Visions often carry long-term, future-oriented significance. The **vision** is "for an appointed time" and for "the time of the end" ([[Habakkuk 2:3]], [[Daniel 8:17]]). In Daniel, visions are to be sealed up because they concern "many days" in the future ([[Daniel 8:26]], [[Daniel 10:14]]). The seventy weeks prophecy was given to "seal up the **vision** and prophecy" [[Daniel 9:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2377}}` is a crucial term for understanding how God communicates His will and future plans. It is not merely a subjective experience but a specific, authoritative revelation given to His chosen messengers. The concept of **châzôwn** establishes a clear line between divine truth and human deceit, serving as a cornerstone of prophetic ministry and a promise that God's plan, though it may tarry, will ultimately be fulfilled.
TRV