### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **rôʼeh**, represented by `{{H7203}}`, is defined as a **vision**. Derived from a root meaning "to see," it can refer to a seer but is used in scripture abstractly for the concept of a vision itself. This word appears just **1 time** in **1 unique verse**, making its single usage particularly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H7203}}` is in [[Isaiah 28:7]], within a sharp rebuke of failed spiritual leaders. The verse describes how the priest and the prophet have "erred in **vision**" because they have been "swallowed up of wine" and are "out of the way through strong drink." In this context, the **vision** is not a divine revelation being received, but a faculty of spiritual perception that has been corrupted. The failure is directly linked to intoxication, which causes these leaders to stumble in their judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the surrounding text clarify the meaning of this compromised **vision**:
* `{{H7686}}` **shâgâh** (to stray, err, be deceived): This verb is directly paired with `{{H7203}}` to describe the state of the leaders who "err in vision" [[Isaiah 28:7]]. Its definition includes the idea of reeling through intoxication, linking the spiritual error directly to the physical cause. The word is also used to warn that whoever is deceived by wine and strong drink is not wise [[Proverbs 20:1]].
* `{{H5030}}` **nâbîyʼ** (a prophet or inspired man): The prophet is one of the key figures whose vision is compromised. As an "inspired man" who is supposed to receive God's secrets [[Amos 3:7]], the prophet's failure to see clearly represents a profound breakdown in spiritual leadership.
* `{{H6328}}` **pûwq** (to stumble, waver): This word describes the direct consequence of the corrupted vision. Because the leaders err in vision, they "stumble in judgment" [[Isaiah 28:7]], showing that flawed spiritual insight leads to unsteady and unreliable actions.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7203}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful context, highlighting several principles:
* **The Corruption of Spiritual Sight:** The primary theme is the impairment of spiritual perception. The verse warns that those in roles requiring clear vision—the priest `{{H3548}}` and the prophet `{{H5030}}`—can have their sight blinded by worldly indulgence [[Isaiah 28:7]].
* **The Link Between Physical and Spiritual States:** A direct line is drawn between physical intoxication and spiritual error. Wine `{{H3196}}` and strong drink `{{H7941}}` are not just physical substances but agents that cause leaders to err and go astray, corrupting their vision [[Isaiah 28:7]].
* **The Foundation of Judgment:** The passage demonstrates that true judgment `{{H6417}}` depends on clear vision. When the ability to see rightly is compromised, the ability to judge rightly falters, causing leaders to stumble [[Isaiah 28:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7203}}` serves as a critical theological keyword despite its rarity. Its singular use in scripture is not for a positive revelation, but as a stark warning. It illustrates that the faculty of spiritual **vision** is essential for leadership and can be corrupted by physical excess, leading directly to error and a failure of judgment. It underscores the responsibility of spiritual leaders to maintain clarity, lest they stumble and lead others astray.
TRV