Topical Bible: The Eye: Parts of Mentioned in Scripture: The Apple or Ball

◄ The Eye: Parts of Mentioned in Scripture: The Apple or Ball ►

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In biblical literature, the eye is often used metaphorically and symbolically, representing perception, understanding, and divine protection. One specific part of the eye mentioned in Scripture is the "apple" or "ball" of the eye, which is a term used to describe the pupil or the central part of the eye. This part of the eye is considered precious and delicate, symbolizing something of great value and requiring protection.

Biblical References:

1. Deuteronomy 32:10 : "He found him in a desert land, in a barren, howling wilderness; He surrounded him, He instructed him, He guarded him as the apple of His eye." In this passage, the "apple of His eye" is used to describe God's protective care over Israel. The imagery suggests that just as one would protect the pupil of their eye from harm, so does God protect His people with vigilance and tenderness.

2. Psalm 17:8 : "Keep me as the apple of Your eye; hide me in the shadow of Your wings." Here, the psalmist appeals to God for protection, using the metaphor of the eye's apple to express a desire for divine safeguarding. The request underscores the vulnerability of the human condition and the need for God's attentive care.

3. Proverbs 7:2 : "Keep my commandments and live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye." In this proverb, the apple of the eye symbolizes the importance and value of wisdom and divine instruction. Just as one would protect their eye, so should one guard and cherish God's commandments.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

The use of the "apple of the eye" in Scripture conveys a deep sense of value and protection. It reflects the intimate and personal nature of God's relationship with His people, emphasizing His role as a guardian and protector. The imagery also highlights the importance of wisdom and obedience to God's laws, suggesting that they should be held in the highest regard, much like the most sensitive part of the eye.

In a broader theological context, the eye, and specifically the apple of the eye, serves as a reminder of the need for spiritual vigilance and the pursuit of divine truth. It calls believers to focus on God's teachings and to seek His protection in a world that often presents spiritual and moral challenges.

The metaphor of the eye's apple is a powerful illustration of God's love and care, as well as the believer's responsibility to uphold and cherish the divine wisdom imparted through Scripture.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Deuteronomy 32:10
He found him in a desert land, and in the waste howling wilderness; he led him about, he instructed him, he kept him as the apple of his eye.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican
... as was the apostle Matthew, whom we mentioned before, is ... yet be made guilty by an
adulterous eye, against which ... the strength of his own natural parts; for so ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse upon the pharisee.htm

The Holy War,
... by the margin, mean the books of Sacred Scripture, sent to ... and fly not only to the
uttermost parts of the ... of hearing for all without the town, as Eye-gate was ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy war.htm