### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **pâqach**, represented by `{{H6491}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to open**, particularly in the context of the senses like the eyes. Figuratively, it means to be observant. It appears 20 times across 18 unique verses, illustrating its role in describing both physical sight and spiritual perception.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6491}}` is used to signify pivotal moments of new awareness. After eating the forbidden fruit, the eyes of Adam and Eve **were opened** `{{H6491}}`, and they gained the knowledge that they were naked [[Genesis 3:7]]. It also describes a supernatural revealing of the spiritual realm, as when Elisha prayed for the LORD to **open** `{{H6491}}` his servant's eyes to see the heavenly armies [[2 Kings 6:17]]. The term is also used in a prophetic sense, promising a time when the eyes of the blind **shall be opened** `{{H6491}}` [[Isaiah 35:5]]. Furthermore, God's eyes are described as being **open** `{{H6491}}` upon the ways of humanity, signifying His constant observation and judgment [[Jeremiah 32:19]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H6491}}`:
* `{{H5869}}` **ʻayin** (eye): This is the object most frequently acted upon by `{{H6491}}`. The act of opening the **eye** is central to its meaning, whether literally [[2 Kings 4:35]] or figuratively [[Proverbs 20:13]].
* `{{H5787}}` **ʻivvêr** (blind): This word represents the state that `{{H6491}}` often remedies. Scripture speaks of the LORD **opening** `{{H6491}}` the eyes of the **blind** `{{H5787}}` as an act of divine power and restoration [[Psalms 146:8]].
* `{{H7200}}` **râʼâh** (to see): This is the direct result of the action of `{{H6491}}`. The purpose of opening eyes is to enable someone **to see** `{{H7200}}`, whether it is a well of water [[Genesis 21:19]] or a spiritual reality [[2 Kings 6:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6491}}` is significant, touching on core scriptural themes.
* **Spiritual Enlightenment:** The act of opening eyes serves as a metaphor for gaining a new perception. This can be a newfound knowledge of good and evil [[Genesis 3:5]], or a God-given ability to perceive spiritual realities that are otherwise hidden from natural sight [[2 Kings 6:17]].
* **Divine Watchfulness:** God's eyes are described as **open** `{{H6491}}` to signify his omniscience and justice. He observes all human actions to deliver judgment and mercy [[Jeremiah 32:19]] and to watch over His people for protection [[Zechariah 12:4]].
* **Prophetic Restoration:** The promise **to open** `{{H6491}}` blind eyes is a recurring theme of future deliverance. This act is linked with releasing prisoners from darkness and is presented as a messianic work of restoration and healing for God's people [[Isaiah 42:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6491}}` is a dynamic term that extends far beyond physical action. It encapsulates the transition from blindness to sight, ignorance to knowledge, and confinement to freedom. Whether describing the literal opening of a child's eyes or the figurative opening of God's own, **pâqach** is a word that signifies revelation, observation, and the powerful intervention of God in the world.
TRV