Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Meaning: "Ephphatha" is an Aramaic word meaning "Be opened." It is a term used in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the Gospel of Mark, where Jesus uses it during a miraculous healing. Biblical Reference: The term "Ephphatha" is found in Mark 7:31-37. In this passage, Jesus encounters a man who is deaf and has a speech impediment. The people bring the man to Jesus, seeking healing. Jesus takes the man aside, away from the crowd, and performs a series of actions before speaking the word "Ephphatha." Scriptural Context (Mark 7:34-35): "Then He looked up to heaven and spoke a deep sigh, and said to him, 'Ephphatha!' (which means, 'Be opened!'). Immediately the man’s ears were opened and his tongue was released, and he began to speak plainly." Theological Significance: The use of "Ephphatha" by Jesus is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates Jesus' authority over physical ailments, showcasing His divine power to heal and restore. The act of healing the deaf and mute man is a testament to Jesus' compassion and His mission to bring wholeness to those who are suffering. Secondly, the use of Aramaic, the common language of the Jewish people at the time, highlights the accessibility of Jesus' ministry. By speaking in a language understood by the people, Jesus emphasizes the personal and direct nature of His miracles. Symbolic Interpretation: Beyond the physical healing, "Ephphatha" carries a symbolic meaning of spiritual openness. It can be seen as an invitation for believers to open their hearts and minds to the teachings of Christ. Just as the man's ears and tongue were opened, followers of Jesus are called to be receptive to His word and to proclaim it boldly. Historical and Cultural Context: In the first-century Jewish context, physical disabilities were often viewed as a result of sin or divine displeasure. By healing the deaf and mute man, Jesus challenges these cultural assumptions and reveals the inclusive nature of God's kingdom. The miracle serves as a sign of the Messianic age, where the prophecies of Isaiah about the deaf hearing and the mute speaking are fulfilled (Isaiah 35:5-6). Application for Believers: The account of "Ephphatha" encourages believers to seek Jesus for both physical and spiritual healing. It serves as a reminder of the power of Christ to transform lives and the importance of being open to His work in the world. Christians are called to emulate Jesus' compassion and to be instruments of His healing and grace in their communities. Concordance Ephphathaephphatha (1 Occurrence)Mark 7:34 Thesaurus Ephphathaephphatha (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Ephphathaephphatha (1 Occurrence). Mark 7:34 and having looked to the heaven, he sighed, and saith to him ... /e/ephphathaephphatha.htm - 6k Eph'phatha (1 Occurrence) Ephraim (168 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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