Brief Overview of ὄμμα (Strong’s G3659: omma)

Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies, as they provide insight into the nuances of the text and its cultural background. The term ὄμμα (omma) is particularly significant because it refers to the “eye,” which is not just a physical organ but often carries deeper symbolic meanings in both spiritual and cultural contexts. In the New Testament, particularly in passages like Mark 8:23, the eye symbolizes perception, insight, and understanding. Analyzing ὄμμα enriches our interpretation of Scripture and illuminates the broader cultural and philosophical significance of sight and perception in ancient Greek thought.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: ὄμμα (omma) [om’-ma]

Etymology: The word derives from the Proto-Indo-European root *ok-, meaning “to see.” It underscores the function of the eye as an organ of vision and perception.

Part of Speech: Noun; it is a neuter noun that specifically refers to the eye.

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Defining Meanings

Eye

The primary meaning of ὄμμα is “eye,” referring to the physical organ responsible for sight. This definition encompasses the basic anatomical structure, emphasizing its role in human experience and perception.

Sight

In a broader sense, ὄμμα can refer to “sight” or the act of seeing. This meaning extends beyond the physical organ to include the ability to perceive and understand one’s surroundings.

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Insight

Metaphorically, ὄμμα is often used to signify insight or spiritual understanding. In many biblical contexts, the condition of the eye (whether it is healthy or unhealthy) is associated with one’s ability to perceive truth and engage with spiritual realities.

Exploring Similar Words

ὀφθαλμός (ophthalmos) [of-thal-mos’]: This word also means “eye” but is often used in a more formal or anatomical context. While ὄμμα refers to the eye more generally, ὀφθαλμός can carry connotations of vision and perspective in philosophical discussions.

θεωρία (theōria) [theh-o-ri’-ah]: Meaning “sight” or “vision,” this term refers to contemplation or the act of observing. Unlike ὄμμα, which denotes the physical organ, θεωρία emphasizes the act of perceiving and understanding.

φαίνω (phainō) [fa-in’-o]: This verb means “to shine” or “to appear.” While not a direct synonym, it relates to the act of bringing something into light or making it visible, complementing the idea of sight associated with ὄμμα.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a noun, ὄμμα has specific morphological features relevant to its grammatical use.

Case, Number, Gender: ὄμμα is a neuter noun that can appear in various cases such as nominative, genitive, dative, and accusative, typically in singular form in the biblical context.

Declension: ὄμμα follows the typical patterns for neuter nouns in Greek. The declension for this noun may look as follows:

• Nominative Singular: ὄμμα

• Genitive Singular: ὄμματος

• Dative Singular: ὄμματα

• Accusative Singular: ὄμμα

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Studying Lexicon Insights

Insights from various Greek lexicons reveal that ὄμμα is integral to understanding the physical and metaphorical dimensions of vision in biblical texts. In Mark 8:23, where Jesus addresses the blindness of those who lack insight, the term ὄμμα symbolizes not only the physical eye but also the spiritual perception necessary for understanding God’s message. Lexicons highlight the dual nature of ὄμμα—its literal meaning as the eye and its metaphorical significance as a conduit for spiritual truth and awareness. This word is often contrasted with blindness, underscoring the theme of spiritual awakening and the importance of seeing beyond the physical.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

• Mark 8:23: “So He took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the town. And when He had spit on his eyes (ὄμμα) and put His hands on him, He asked him if he saw anything.”

• Matthew 6:22: “The lamp of the body is the eye (ὄμμα). If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light.”

• Matthew 20:34: “So Jesus had compassion and touched their eyes (ὄμμα). And immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed Him.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Author Name of Work English Text

Homer Iliad “And he stood, his eye (ὄμμα) fixed upon the horizon.”

Plato Phaedrus “The eye (ὄμμα) is the window of the soul.”

Aristotle On the Soul “Vision occurs through the eye (ὄμμα) receiving light.”

Septuagint Isaiah 29:18 “In that day the deaf shall hear the words of the book, and the eyes (ὄμμα) of the blind shall see.”

Septuagint Psalms 119:18 “Open my eyes (ὄμμα), that I may see wondrous things from Your law.”

Septuagint Job 42:5 “I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye (ὄμμα) sees You.”

Noteworthy Summary

The term ὄμμα (omma) signifies the physical eye while also encompassing deeper spiritual meanings related to perception and insight. Its occurrence in biblical texts emphasizes the interplay between physical sight and spiritual understanding, inviting readers to consider the condition of their spiritual vision. The morphological characteristics of ὄμμα, along with its connections to similar Greek words, enhance our comprehension of its significance in both biblical and classical literature.

Did You Know?

Symbolic Importance: In ancient Greek culture, the eye was often seen as a symbol of knowledge and insight, making its representation in literature and philosophy highly significant.

Connection to Spirituality: The New Testament frequently uses the concept of sight and vision to illustrate spiritual truths, highlighting the transformative power of understanding God’s word.

Cultural Metaphors: The interplay between sight and insight in biblical texts serves as a metaphor for spiritual enlightenment, encouraging believers to seek deeper understanding in their faith journey.