Acts 9:12
And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
εἶδεν
hath seen
G1492
εἶδεν
hath seen
Strong's:
G1492
Word #:
2 of 14
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
ὁράματι
a vision
G3705
ὁράματι
a vision
Strong's:
G3705
Word #:
4 of 14
something gazed at, i.e., a spectacle (especially supernatural)
ὀνόματι
named
G3686
ὀνόματι
named
Strong's:
G3686
Word #:
6 of 14
a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
9 of 14
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
αὐτῷ
him
G846
αὐτῷ
him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
11 of 14
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
χεῖρα,
his hand
G5495
χεῖρα,
his hand
Strong's:
G5495
Word #:
12 of 14
the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)
Historical Context
Visions and direct divine communication were common in the apostolic era as God established the church and revealed new covenant truth. Both Saul and Ananias received supernatural guidance for this crucial meeting that would launch Paul's apostleship.
Questions for Reflection
- Why did God prepare both Saul and Ananias through visions for their meeting?
- How does restored sight symbolize the spiritual illumination of conversion?
- What does God's detailed orchestration teach about His involvement in salvation?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Saul had seen in a vision 'a man named Ananias' coming to restore his sight. God prepared both men through visions for their meeting - Ananias needed courage to approach the notorious persecutor, Saul needed assurance that Ananias' coming was God's doing. This dual preparation shows God's providence in bringing together unlikely partners for His purposes. The promise of restored sight pointed to both physical and spiritual sight. Reformed theology sees God's meticulous care in salvation - orchestrating every detail to accomplish His electing purposes.