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H6379 · Hebrew · Old Testament
פָּקַח
paqach
Verb
to open (eyes/ears)/give sight

Definition

A verb meaning to open the eyes or ears — to cause sight or perception. It is used both literally (restoring sight to the blind) and spiritually (illuminating the spiritually blind). One of the great promises of the new covenant is the opening of blind eyes, and the Servant's mission includes giving sight to those who cannot see.

Usage & Theological Significance

Eye-opening is a profound theological metaphor throughout Scripture. At the fall, Adam and Eve's eyes were 'opened' to shame and self-consciousness — a dark irony, as spiritual blindness often presents as wisdom. The great reversal comes through divine grace: God opens eyes to see his glory, his provision, his truth. Elisha prays that his servant's eyes would be opened to see the angelic host surrounding them. The Servant of Isaiah opens blind eyes — a promise Jesus fulfills directly. John 9's healing of the blind man is not just physical restoration but a sustained meditation on spiritual sight versus blindness.

Key Bible Verses

Isaiah 42:7 To open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.
2 Kings 6:17 Elisha prayed, 'Open his eyes, LORD, so that he may see.' Then the LORD opened the servant's eyes.
Isaiah 35:5 Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped.
Luke 24:31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight.
Ephesians 1:18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened.

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External Resources

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