### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻivvêr**, represented by `{{H5787}}`, refers to being **blind**. It appears 26 times across 23 unique verses, used to describe a state that is both literal and figurative. The term encompasses not only physical blindness but also a spiritual or moral inability to perceive truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H5787}}` is used in several key contexts. It appears in legal codes that protect the vulnerable, stating, "nor put a stumblingblock before the **blind**" [[Leviticus 19:14]], and pronouncing a curse on anyone who makes the **blind** wander from the way [[Deuteronomy 27:18]]. It is also used in a ritual context, where a **blind** animal is considered to have a blemish `{{H3971}}` and is unacceptable for sacrifice [[Malachi 1:8]]. Figuratively, it describes spiritual failure, as when Israel's leaders are called **blind** watchmen who are ignorant [[Isaiah 56:10]], or when the nation itself is described as God's **blind** servant [[Isaiah 42:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of blindness and perception:
* `{{H6491}}` **pâqach** (to open): This verb provides the direct antidote to blindness. It is used in messianic prophecies where God promises that "the eyes of the **blind** shall be **opened**" [[Isaiah 35:5]], signifying divine healing and restoration.
* `{{H2822}}` **chôshek** (darkness): This word describes the environment of the blind, both literally and figuratively. God promises to bring his people out of **darkness** [[Isaiah 42:7]] and to lead the **blind** by making **darkness** light before them [[Isaiah 42:16]].
* `{{H3782}}` **kâshal** (to stumble): This word denotes a direct consequence of being blind. As a result of their sin, the people "grope for the wall like the **blind**" and **stumble** at noonday [[Isaiah 59:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5787}}` is significant, highlighting key divine truths.
* **Divine Sovereignty:** God's ultimate authority over human conditions is asserted in Exodus, where He asks, "who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the **blind**? have not I the LORD?" [[Exodus 4:11]].
* **Symbol of Sin and Judgment:** Spiritual blindness is a frequent metaphor for a state of sin. As a judgment, God declares that people will "walk like **blind** men, because they have sinned against the LORD" [[Zephaniah 1:17]]. Disobedience leads to a curse of groping at noonday "as the **blind** gropeth in darkness" [[Deuteronomy 28:29]].
* **Promise of Restoration:** The healing of the **blind** is a powerful sign of God's redemptive work. In Psalms, "The LORD **openeth** the eyes of the **blind**" [[Psalms 146:8]], and Isaiah prophesies a time when the "eyes of the **blind** shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness" [[Isaiah 29:18]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5787}}` is more than a simple description of a physical disability. It is a deeply meaningful term in scripture, woven into law, prophecy, and symbolic language. It serves as a powerful illustration of the contrast between physical sight and spiritual perception, human weakness and God's sovereign power to bring light out of darkness.
TRV