Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Historical Context: Glasses, known today as spectacles, are optical instruments consisting of lenses mounted in a frame that rests on the nose and ears. They are used to correct vision impairments such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The invention of glasses is attributed to the late 13th century in Italy, long after the biblical era. Therefore, glasses are not directly mentioned in the Bible. Biblical References to Vision and Sight: While glasses themselves are not mentioned in the Scriptures, the Bible frequently addresses the themes of vision and sight, both in the physical and spiritual sense. Vision is often used metaphorically to describe understanding and insight. For example, in Proverbs 29:18 , it is written, "Where there is no vision, the people cast off restraint; but blessed is he who keeps the law." This verse highlights the importance of spiritual vision and guidance. Spiritual Insight and Clarity: The Bible emphasizes the need for spiritual clarity and insight, akin to the clarity that glasses provide for physical sight. In Ephesians 1:18 , Paul prays, "I ask that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you may know the hope of His calling, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints." Here, the "eyes of your heart" symbolize the need for spiritual understanding and enlightenment. Healing of Physical Blindness: The Gospels recount several instances where Jesus heals physical blindness, demonstrating His divine power and compassion. In John 9:6-7 , Jesus heals a man born blind: "When He had said this, He spat on the ground, made some mud, and applied it to the man’s eyes. Then He told him, 'Go, wash in the Pool of Siloam' (which means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came back seeing." These miracles underscore the belief in Jesus as the Light of the World, who brings both physical and spiritual sight. Metaphorical Use of Sight and Blindness: The Bible often uses blindness as a metaphor for spiritual ignorance or lack of faith. In 2 Corinthians 4:4 , Paul writes, "The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." This metaphorical blindness contrasts with the spiritual sight granted to believers through faith in Christ. Wisdom and Discernment: The Scriptures encourage believers to seek wisdom and discernment, akin to seeking clear vision. James 1:5 states, "Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." Just as glasses aid in correcting physical vision, divine wisdom aids in correcting spiritual perception. Conclusion: While glasses as a physical object are not present in biblical times, the themes of vision, sight, and clarity are deeply embedded in the Scriptures. They serve as powerful metaphors for understanding, wisdom, and spiritual enlightenment, encouraging believers to seek both physical and spiritual clarity in their walk with God. Library Faith in the Saved Sinner Alone. Meditation viii. Institution of the Holy Eucharist. A Human Picture of God. The Moods of Mr. George Moore The Power and Wisdom of God in the Creation. Jerome Savonarola (Ad 1452-1498) Meditation iv. The Chalice Used at the Last Supper Secret Faults The Pure in Heart The Need of Scripture, as a Guide and Teacher, in Coming to God as ... Thesaurus Glasses (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Glasses (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 3:23 The glasses, and the fine linen, and the hoods, and the vails. (KJV BBE WBS). ... /g/glasses.htm - 6k Looking-glasses (2 Occurrences) Glass (12 Occurrences) Vails (1 Occurrence) Undergarments (6 Occurrences) Looking-glass (1 Occurrence) Lookingglasses (1 Occurrence) Lookingglass Lookout (4 Occurrences) Glaze (1 Occurrence) Resources What does it mean that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14)? | GotQuestions.orgHow do the elements of the Passover Seder point to Christ? | GotQuestions.org Glasses: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Glasses (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 3:23 Subtopics Related Terms |