Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of "blinds" or "blindness" is often used both literally and metaphorically. The Bible contains numerous references to physical blindness, as well as spiritual blindness, which is a condition of the heart and mind.Physical Blindness Physical blindness is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible. In the ancient Near East, blindness was a common affliction, often resulting from disease, injury, or congenital conditions. The blind were typically marginalized and dependent on others for support. In the Gospels, Jesus frequently encounters blind individuals, demonstrating His compassion and divine authority through miraculous healings. One of the most notable accounts is the healing of Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, in Mark 10:46-52. Bartimaeus cries out to Jesus, "Son of David, have mercy on me!" (Mark 10:47). Jesus responds to his faith and restores his sight, illustrating His power and mercy. In John 9, Jesus heals a man who was blind from birth, declaring, "As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world" (John 9:5). This miracle not only demonstrates Jesus' ability to heal physical ailments but also serves as a sign of His spiritual mission to bring light to a darkened world. Spiritual Blindness The Bible frequently uses blindness as a metaphor for spiritual ignorance or the inability to perceive divine truth. Spiritual blindness is often associated with a hardened heart and a refusal to acknowledge God's revelation. In the Old Testament, the prophets often lament the spiritual blindness of Israel. Isaiah 6:9-10 describes a people who "keep on hearing, but do not understand; keep on seeing, but do not perceive" . This condition is attributed to their rebellion and idolatry, which have clouded their spiritual vision. In the New Testament, Jesus confronts the spiritual blindness of the Pharisees and religious leaders. In Matthew 15:14, He refers to them as "blind guides," warning that "if the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit" . Their legalism and self-righteousness prevent them from recognizing Jesus as the Messiah. The Apostle Paul also addresses spiritual blindness in his letters. In 2 Corinthians 4:4, he explains that "the god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ" . This blindness is overcome through the work of the Holy Spirit, who opens the eyes of the heart to understand and accept the truth of the Gospel. Healing and Restoration The Bible consistently presents God as the healer of both physical and spiritual blindness. The prophetic vision of the Messianic age includes the restoration of sight to the blind. Isaiah 35:5 proclaims, "Then the eyes of the blind will be opened" , a promise fulfilled in the ministry of Jesus. In Revelation, the final restoration of all things includes the removal of spiritual blindness. The redeemed will see God face to face, and there will be no more darkness or deception (Revelation 22:4-5). Throughout Scripture, the theme of blindness serves as a powerful reminder of humanity's need for divine intervention and the transformative power of God's grace. Strong's Hebrew 5786. avar -- to make blind, blind... blinded. Word Origin a prim. root Definition to make blind, blind NASB Word Usage blinded (2), blinds (2), put (1). blind, put out. ... /hebrew/5786.htm - 6k Library The Thief Gained the Faith which Gained Him, and Brought Him up ... Showing How the Spirit Goes Out through the Divine Stirring June the Twenty-Eighth the Waiting Light Whether it is Lawful to be Angry? Faustus Denies that Manich??ans Believe in Two Gods. Hyle no God. ... The Second Epistle to the Corinthians the Creator the Father of ... The First Year --Society and Climate. Preaching at Nazareth Hymns for the Use of the People Called Methodists Revival in the Home Thesaurus Blinds (2 Occurrences)...Blinds (2 Occurrences). Exodus 23:8 "You shall take no bribe, for a bribe blinds those who have sight and perverts the words of the righteous. (WEB NAS RSV NIV) ... /b/blinds.htm - 6k Blindness (7 Occurrences) Twists (12 Occurrences) Perverts (7 Occurrences) Bliss (1 Occurrence) Bribe (27 Occurrences) Clear-sighted (1 Occurrence) Subverts (4 Occurrences) Officials (229 Occurrences) Blind (91 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about bribery / giving or receiving a bribe? | GotQuestions.orgWhy does God hate sin? | GotQuestions.org What is Christian revival? | GotQuestions.org Blinds: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Blinds (2 Occurrences)Exodus 23:8 Deuteronomy 16:19 Subtopics Related Terms |
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