### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **shâtham**, represented by `{{H8365}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to unveil** or, figuratively, to **be open**. It is a rare term, appearing only 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible. Its meaning is tied to the concept of having one's perception or spiritual sight revealed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{H8365}}` are found in the book of Numbers, within two nearly identical prophetic statements made by Balaam. As he took up his parable, he declared, "...the man whose eyes are **open** hath said" ([[Numbers 24:3]]; [[Numbers 24:15]]). In this context, the word describes Balaam's own state of receiving divine revelation. It suggests his spiritual eyes were unveiled by God, allowing him to speak an oracle he would not have otherwise perceived.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of `{{H8365}}`:
* `{{H1109}}` **Bilʻâm** (Balaam, a Mesopotamian prophet): He is the central figure in the narrative, the one whose eyes are described as "open." Though hired to curse Israel, God turned his intended curse into a blessing [[Deuteronomy 23:5]].
* `{{H5869}}` **ʻayin** (an eye (literally or figuratively)): This is the word for "eyes" in the key phrase. The use of `shâtham` with `ʻayin` points to a figurative, spiritual sight rather than mere physical vision [[Numbers 24:3]].
* `{{H4912}}` **mâshâl** (a pithy maxim... a simile (as an adage, poem, discourse)): This word sets the stage for Balaam's utterance. The declaration of having open eyes occurs as he "took up his **parable**," indicating a formal, prophetic discourse [[Numbers 24:15]].
* `{{H5002}}` **nᵉʼum** (an oracle): This term, translated as "hath said," appears twice in both verses where `shâtham` is used. Its meaning as an "oracle" reinforces that Balaam's message is a divinely sourced revelation [[Numbers 24:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H8365}}` is concentrated in its specific context:
* **Prophetic Revelation:** The word illustrates that true prophecy is an act of divine unveiling. Balaam, a man acting against God's will, becomes a conduit for God's message only when his spiritual eyes are **open** by a power beyond his own.
* **Spiritual Sight:** The use of `shâtham` distinguishes spiritual perception from physical sight. It signifies a moment of clarity and insight granted by God, enabling a person to see and speak truth, as when God told Balaam, "the word which I shall say unto thee, that shalt thou do" [[Numbers 22:20]].
* **Authority of the Oracle:** By declaring himself "the man whose eyes are open," Balaam establishes the authority of his message. The open state validates the subsequent words as an authentic oracle from God, not a product of human invention.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8365}}` is a highly specific term that, while rare, provides a profound insight into the nature of divine revelation. Used exclusively to describe the prophet Balaam, **shâtham** defines the state of having one's spiritual eyes unveiled to perceive and declare God's word. It powerfully illustrates that prophetic vision is not a human skill but a divinely granted state of being **open** to heavenly truth.
TRV