Blind

Blind beggars are frequently mentioned (Matt 9:27; 12:22; 20:30; John 5:3). The blind are to be treated with compassion (Lev 19:14; Deut 27:18). Blindness was sometimes a punishment for disobedience (1 Sam 11:2; Jer 39:7), sometimes the effect of old age (Gen 27:1; 1 Kgs 14:4; 1 Sam 4:15). Conquerors sometimes blinded their captives (2 Kgs 25:7; 1 Sam 11:2). Blindness denotes ignorance as to spiritual things (Isa 6:10; 42:18, 19; Matt 15:14; Eph 4:18). The opening of the eyes of the blind is peculiar to the Messiah (Isa 29:18). Elymas was smitten with blindness at Paul’s word (Acts 13:11).