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G872 · Greek · New Testament
ἀφοράω
Aphorao
Verb
To look away, fix eyes on, give full attention to

Definition

The Greek verb aphorao combines apo (away from) and horao (to see), meaning to look away from all else and fix one's gaze intently on a single object. It appears twice in the New Testament: in Hebrews 12:2, exhorting believers to fix their eyes on Jesus, and in Philippians 2:23, where Paul looks to how things will go for Timothy.

Usage & Theological Significance

Hebrews 12:2 gives this verb its most powerful theological use: "fixing our eyes (aphorontes) on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith." This is the antidote to spiritual fatigue: tearing your gaze away from the distractions, difficulties, and discouragements that surround you, and fixing it on Christ who ran the same race and sits victorious at the Father's right hand. All endurance in the Christian life flows from this sustained, deliberate looking at Jesus.

Key Bible Verses

Hebrews 12:2 Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame.
Hebrews 12:1 Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Philippians 2:23 I hope, therefore, to send him as soon as I see how things go with me.
Isaiah 45:22 "Turn to me and be saved, all you ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is no other."
2 Corinthians 4:18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

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