what is spiritual eyes in the bible?

         In the Bible, spiritual eyes refer to the ability to perceive and understand spiritual truths that are not visible to the natural or physical eyes. This concept points to discernment, revelation, and insight given by the Holy Spirit to help believers understand God’s will, see the unseen realm, and walk in truth.

1. Definition of Spiritual Eyes

         Spiritual eyes are not physical but symbolic of spiritual perception and awareness. Just as physical eyes allow us to see the natural world, spiritual eyes allow us to “see” and understand the things of God — His plans, His presence, spiritual warfare, and truths that are hidden to the natural mind.

Ephesians 1:18 (KJV)

    “The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling…”

         Here, Paul prays for believers to have their spiritual eyes opened so they can truly grasp the hope, riches, and power that come from knowing God.

2. Biblical Examples of Spiritual Eyes

A. Elisha and His Servant – 2 Kings 6:15–17

        Elisha’s servant was afraid when they were surrounded by an enemy army. Elisha prayed for God to open his servant’s eyes:

2 Kings 6:17 (KJV)

    “And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha.”

         This is a clear illustration of spiritual eyes being opened to see angelic protection that was invisible to the natural eye.

B. Jesus and the Two Disciples on the Road to Emmaus – Luke 24:30–31

         After His resurrection, Jesus walked with two disciples who didn’t recognize Him until their spiritual eyes were opened:

Luke 24:31 (KJV)

    “And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.”

         This moment of recognition shows that spiritual blindness can prevent someone from seeing who Jesus is — even if He is right beside them.

C. Paul’s Conversion – Acts 9:3–18

         Saul (later Paul) was physically blinded when Jesus encountered him on the road to Damascus. Later, when Ananias prayed for him:

Acts 9:18 (KJV)

    “And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith…”

        The removal of the “scales” symbolized the opening of his spiritual understanding to the truth of Christ.

3. Spiritual Blindness in Scripture

         The Bible also speaks of spiritual blindness, which is the inability to understand or accept spiritual truth due to sin, unbelief, or hardness of heart.

2 Corinthians 4:4 (KJV)

    “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not…”

         Satan works to keep people spiritually blind so they cannot see the truth of the gospel.

4. Characteristics of Open Spiritual Eyes

         When your spiritual eyes are open:

● You discern good from evil (Hebrews 5:14)

● You recognize God’s presence and direction

● You understand scripture more deeply (Psalm 119:18)

● You are sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s prompting

● You are aware of spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12)

Psalm 119:18 (KJV)

    “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.”

5. How to Open Spiritual Eyes

         Opening your spiritual eyes is a work of the Holy Spirit but can be nurtured through:

● Prayer – asking God to open your eyes (Ephesians 1:18)

● Bible Study – God's Word brings light and understanding (Psalm 119:130)

● Obedience – the more you walk in truth, the more you see (John 7:17)

● Fasting – helps remove spiritual dullness (Daniel 10)

● Holy Spirit – He reveals truth and gives insight (John 16:13)

6. Why Spiritual Eyes Matter

         Without spiritual vision:

● People live in confusion and error (Hosea 4:6)

● Believers may fall for deception (Matthew 24:24)

● We miss God’s divine instructions and warnings

         With spiritual eyes:

● We can walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7)

● We can resist spiritual attacks

● We can align with God’s purpose in clarity

Revelation 3:18 (KJV)

    “…anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.”

         This shows that spiritual sight must be restored or maintained, and sometimes requires repentance and renewed submission to God.