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G634 · Greek · New Testament
ἀποπίπτω
apopipto
Verb
To fall off / Fall away

Definition

A verb meaning 'to fall off,' 'to fall away from,' or 'to drop off.' Used in Acts 9:18 for the scales falling from Saul's eyes at his conversion.

Usage & Theological Significance

Apopipto (G634) appears in Acts 9:18: 'And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes (apepesan autou apo ton ophtalmon hos lepides), and he regained his sight.' This is the dramatic moment of Saul's healing/conversion after three days of blindness following his encounter with the risen Christ on the Damascus road. The scale-like film falling off his eyes is both physical healing and spiritual symbol -- the one who had been spiritually blind, persecuting the light, now literally sees as the scales fall. Theologically, this is one of Scripture's most vivid conversion images: the removal of spiritual blindness that allows clear sight of Jesus.

Key Bible Verses

Acts 9:18 And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes (apepesan apo ton ophtalmon hos lepides), and he regained his sight.
Acts 9:17 'Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.'
2 Corinthians 4:4 In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ.
John 9:25 He answered, 'Whether he is a sinner I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.'
Isaiah 42:7 To open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.

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