ἀφοράω

I look away from

Definition

The verb ἀφοράω means to look away from one thing in order to focus intently on another. It implies a deliberate turning of attention, often involving a shift of gaze from distractions or lesser concerns to a primary, worthy object. In its sole New Testament occurrence in Hebrews 12:2, it describes Jesus 'looking away to' the joy set before Him, emphasizing His focused, purposeful endurance of the cross. The word combines the sense of ignoring or disregarding one thing with the positive action of fixing one's sight on something else.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Hebrews 12:2. It appears in the context of exhorting believers to run the race of faith with endurance, using Jesus as the supreme example. The author writes that Jesus, 'for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.' The use of ἀφοράω perfectly captures the mental and spiritual discipline of disregarding present suffering (the cross and its shame) by focusing on a future, greater reality (the joy and exaltation to come).

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀπό (apo, meaning 'away from') and the verb ὁράω (horaō, meaning 'to see, look'). It is a compound verb literally meaning 'to look away from.' This construction emphasizes the directional aspect of sight—turning one's gaze away from something. The related noun form ἀφορμή (aphormē) means 'a starting point' or 'occasion,' stemming from the same idea of looking away from one thing to begin another.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it encapsulates a key principle of the Christian life: endurance through focused faith. In Hebrews 12:2, it describes the mindset of Christ, who endured suffering by fixing His attention on the joy of fulfilling God's redemptive plan and His subsequent exaltation. This provides a powerful model for believers, teaching that persevering faith often requires consciously shifting our focus from temporary trials to eternal promises and the person of Jesus Himself. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading of this passage by highlighting the active, intentional choice involved in faithful endurance.

In the Greco-Roman world, athletic imagery was a common metaphor for discipline and striving toward a goal, as seen in the surrounding context of Hebrews 12:1-2. The concept of 'looking away' to focus on a finish line or prize would have been readily understood in a culture familiar with foot races and contests. The word implies a strategic and disciplined redirection of attention, which was valued in both athletic and philosophical contexts as a mark of self-control and purpose.

βλέπω (blepō, G991) — a more general term for seeing or perceiving, without the directional emphasis of 'looking away from.'; ἀτενίζω (atenizō, G816) — to gaze intently or fix one's eyes upon, but without the implied contrast of looking away from something else.; προσέχω (prosechō, G4337) — to pay attention to or give heed to, focusing the mind rather than specifically the eyes.

Word Details

Scripture References