G3799

Unveiling the Word

The Greek word ὄψις (opsis) primarily means “sight,” “appearance,” or “vision.” It refers not only to the physical sense of sight but also to the way something is perceived or looks. In John 7:24, the term is employed to discuss the importance of making judgments based on what is visible rather than merely on outward appearances. This is significant in the context of biblical teachings, where appearances can be deceiving, and deeper truths must be discerned. The term derives from the root verb ὁράω (horaō), meaning “to see,” and is pivotal in discussions related to perception, understanding, and reality.

Necessary Information

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Greek Word: ὄψις (opsis), pronounced [OP-sees].

Etymology: The term comes from the root verb ὁράω (horaō), which means “to see.” This connection emphasizes the dual nature of the word, which encompasses both physical sight and the concept of perception.

Part of Speech: Noun; it denotes the act or ability of seeing, as well as the appearance or form of something.

Defining Meanings

Primary Meaning: Sight; refers to the act of seeing or the visual perception of objects.

Secondary Meaning: Appearance; the way something looks or presents itself, which can encompass both physical attributes and figurative interpretations.

Tertiary Meaning: Vision; in a broader sense, it can refer to insights, revelations, or the understanding gained through sight.

Exploring Similar Words

ὁράω (horaō) [ho-RAH-oh]: This verb means “to see” or “to perceive.” While ὄψις focuses on the result or act of seeing (the sight), ὁράω emphasizes the action of seeing itself.

φάσις (phasis) [PHAS-is]: This word means “appearance” or “manifestation.” It often conveys a sense of being spoken or declared, thus differing from ὄψις, which is primarily about visual perception.

ἀγών (agōn) [ah-GOHN]: While not a direct synonym, this term refers to struggle or contest and can relate to the struggle for clarity in perception. It contrasts with ὄψις, which is more about the clarity of sight.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Nouns:

• Case, Number, Gender: ὄψις is in the nominative case, and it is a singular noun with a feminine gender.

• Declension: It follows the pattern of the third declension in Greek nouns.

Studying Lexicon Insights

The word ὄψις is commonly discussed in both New Testament and classical Greek contexts. In the New Testament, its usage often points toward the need for deeper understanding beyond mere appearances, as seen in John 7:24, where Jesus admonishes his listeners to judge rightly. In classical literature, ὄψις also conveys themes of aesthetics and the perception of beauty, suggesting a broader philosophical context regarding how humans interpret the world around them. Its theological implications emphasize the importance of discernment in spiritual matters, urging believers to look beyond the surface.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

John 7:24: “Judge not according to the appearance [ὄψις], but judge righteous judgment.”

1 Corinthians 2:9: “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen [ὄψις], nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.”

Revelation 1:7: “Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see [ὄψις] him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical literature, the term ὄψις appears frequently in discussions about the nature of sight and perception.

Example 1: Plato, Republic: “In the world of forms, the true ὄψις is not that which is visible to the eye but that which is perceived by the mind.”

Example 2: Aristotle, On the Soul: “The nature of sight is such that the ὄψις of an object is influenced by the light that surrounds it.”

Example 3: Hippocrates, On Airs, Waters, and Places: “The ὄψις of a place can determine the health of its inhabitants, for light and visibility affect well-being.”

Septuagint Example 1: Genesis 1:4: “And God saw [ὄψις] the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.”

Septuagint Example 2: 1 Samuel 16:7: “For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance [ὄψις], but the Lord looketh on the heart.”

Septuagint Example 3: Proverbs 15:3: “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good, their ὄψις known.”

Noteworthy Summary

The word ὄψις serves as a pivotal term in understanding perception, judgment, and insight in both biblical and classical literature. It underscores the necessity of discerning beyond surface appearances, whether in spiritual contexts or philosophical discussions about reality.

Did You Know?

1. The concept of ὄψις is integral to understanding many of Jesus’ teachings, particularly those emphasizing spiritual insight over physical observation.

2. In ancient Greek philosophy, ὄψις was often linked to discussions about truth and reality, highlighting the connection between seeing and understanding.

3. The theological implications of ὄψις remind believers that what is visible is not always indicative of deeper truths, encouraging a more profound spiritual perception.

Strong’s G3799: ὄψις (opsis) means “sight” or “appearance,” emphasizing the significance of discerning true understanding beyond mere outward appearances.