In the Bible, the term “Apple of My Eye” is used to symbolize something precious, cherished, and dearly loved. This phrase conveys the idea of being someone’s favorite or most prized possession. One of the notable mentions of this concept can be found in **Deuteronomy 32:10**, where it says, “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.”
The imagery of being the “Apple of God’s Eye” is a powerful reminder of the love and care that God has for His people. It portrays a sense of intimacy, protection, and favor that God bestows upon those who are close to Him. **Psalm 17:8** reinforces this idea by stating, “Keep me as the apple of the eye, hide me under the shadow of thy wings.” This verse serves as a prayer for divine protection and guidance, acknowledging the special place that individuals hold in God’s heart.
– Symbolism of “Apple of My Eye” in Biblical Scripture
The phrase “apple of my eye” is a common expression that is often used to convey deep affection or love towards someone or something. In the Bible, this phrase is found in several instances and holds significant symbolism. Let’s explore the symbolism of “Apple of My Eye” in Biblical Scripture and the profound meaning behind it.
1. **Deuteronomy 32:10**
“He found him in a desert land, And in the wasteland, a howling wilderness; He encircled him, He instructed him, He kept him as the apple of His eye.”
This verse from Deuteronomy emphasizes God’s protective and caring nature towards His people. It symbolizes the idea that God holds His people close to His heart and watches over them with great love and care.
2. **Psalm 17:8**
“Keep me as the apple of Your eye; Hide me under the shadow of Your wings,”
In this Psalm, the psalmist is seeking God’s protection and guidance, asking to be kept as the apple of God’s eye. This verse reflects the desire to be cherished and valued by God, much like the pupil of the eye is a precious and delicate part of the body.
3. **Proverbs 7:2-3**
“Keep my commands and live, And my law as the apple of your eye. Bind them on your fingers; Write them on the tablet of your heart.”
In the book of Proverbs, the concept of keeping God’s commands and laws as the apple of one’s eye is highlighted. This symbolizes the importance of treasuring and holding onto God’s teachings, allowing them to guide and shape one’s life.
4. **Zechariah 2:8**
“For thus says the Lord of hosts: ‘He sent Me after glory, to the nations which plunder you; for he who touches you touches the apple of His eye.'”
In this verse from Zechariah, the apple of God’s eye is equated with His chosen people. It signifies that those who harm or mistreat God’s people are directly affecting God Himself, emphasizing the special and protected status of His beloved.
5. **Lamentations 2:18**
“Their heart cried unto the Lord, O wall of the daughter of Zion, let tears run down like a river day and night: give thyself no rest; let not the apple of thine eye cease.”
This verse in Lamentations portrays the deep sorrow and anguish of God’s people, likening them to the apple of God’s eye that should never be neglected or forgotten. It underscores the intimate and precious relationship between God and His people.
6. **Psalm 128:1-2**
“Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways! You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you.”
In this Psalm, being the apple of God’s eye is associated with fearing the Lord and walking in His ways. It signifies the blessings and favor that come upon those who honor and obey God, demonstrating His delight in His obedient children.
7. **Matthew 6:22-23**
“The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!”
This passage from the Gospel of Matthew speaks metaphorically about the eye being the lamp of the body. It reminds us of the importance of keeping our focus and attention on God, ensuring that our spiritual vision remains clear and undistorted.
In conclusion, the symbolism of “Apple of My Eye” in Biblical Scripture conveys the profound love, protection, and favor that God has for His people. Just as the apple of the eye is a precious and delicate part of the body, so are His beloved children cherished and valued by Him. By treasuring God’s commands, seeking His protection, and walking in His ways, we can experience the blessings and favor that come from being the apple of His eye.
– Understanding the Biblical Meaning of Being the “Apple of God’s Eye”
The phrase “Apple of God’s eye” is a term used in the Bible to describe someone who is cherished and loved by God. It is a symbol of God’s protection, care, and affection towards His people. Understanding the biblical meaning behind being the “Apple of God’s eye” can provide insight into the deep love that God has for His children.
1. **Deuteronomy 32:10** – “He found him in a desert land, and in the howling waste of the wilderness; he encircled him, he cared for him, he kept him as the apple of his eye.” This verse from Deuteronomy highlights how God’s people are treasured and valued by Him.
2. **Psalm 17:8** – “Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.” In this verse, the psalmist acknowledges God’s protection and refuge for those who are close to Him.
3. **Proverbs 7:2** – “Keep my commandments and live; keep my teaching as the apple of your eye.” This verse emphasizes the importance of obeying God’s word and following His instructions to be considered precious in His sight.
4. **Zechariah 2:8** – “For thus said the Lord of hosts, after his glory sent me to the nations who plundered you, for he who touches you touches the apple of his eye.” This verse reveals God’s fierce protection over His people, warning those who harm them.
5. **Lamentations 2:18** – “Cry aloud to the Lord! O daughter of Zion! Let tears stream down like a torrent day and night! Give yourself no rest, your eyes no respite.” This verse calls for repentance and seeking God’s mercy to remain in His favor as the apple of His eye.
6. **Psalm 104:17** – “The trees of the Lord are watered abundantly, the cedars of Lebanon that he planted.” This verse illustrates God’s provision and care for His creation, including those who are beloved to Him.
7. **Psalm 36:7** – “How precious is your steadfast love, O God! The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.” God’s love is described as precious, providing comfort and security to those who seek Him.
In conclusion, being the “Apple of God’s eye” is a powerful metaphor for the special relationship and deep love that God has for His people. By obeying His commands, seeking refuge in His presence, and repenting of sins, we can remain cherished and protected in His sight. Embracing this biblical meaning can help us grow closer to God and experience His unwavering love in our lives.
| Illustrations | Details |
|—|—|
|Image 1: Apple Tree | Represents God’s provision and care towards His people as the apple of His eye. |
|Image 2: Protective Wings | Symbolizes God’s protection and refuge for those who seek Him and obey His commands. |
– Applying the Concept of Being the “Apple of Someone’s Eye” to Relationships
In relationships, being the “apple of someone’s eye” is a concept that highlights the idea of being highly cherished, valued, and loved by another person. This expression originates from the Bible, where it is used to describe the special place someone holds in another’s heart.
1. **Hannah: A Beloved Wife**
In the Bible, Hannah was a woman who was dearly loved by her husband Elkanah. Despite facing challenges, including infertility, Elkanah cherished and supported Hannah, making her feel like the “apple of his eye.” This deep love and devotion are evident in 1 Samuel 1:5, which states, “But to Hannah, he gave a double portion because he loved her, and the Lord had closed her womb.”
2. **Jacob and Rachel: An Enduring Love**
Another example of being the “apple of someone’s eye” in the Bible can be seen in the relationship between Jacob and Rachel. Jacob worked for Rachel’s father, Laban, for seven years to marry her, showcasing his deep love and commitment to her. Genesis 29:20 highlights Jacob’s love for Rachel, stating, “So Jacob served seven years to get Rachel, but they seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her.”
3. **The Church: Cherished by God**
In the New Testament, the concept of being the “apple of someone’s eye” can also be applied to the relationship between God and His people. In Deuteronomy 32:10, God is described as watching over His people, saying, “In a desert land, he found him, in a barren and howling waste. He shielded him and cared for him; he guarded him as the apple of his eye.”
4. **David and God: A Personal Relationship**
King David also understood the significance of being the “apple of someone’s eye” in his relationship with God. In Psalm 17:8, David prays, “Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.” This verse demonstrates David’s desire to be cherished and protected by God.
5. **Jesus and His Disciples: Unconditional Love**
Jesus exemplified the concept of being the “apple of someone’s eye” through His relationship with His disciples. In John 15:9-10, Jesus says, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.”
6. **The Believer: Loved by God**
For believers, being the “apple of God’s eye” means experiencing His unconditional love and grace. In 1 John 4:19, it is written, “We love because he first loved us.” This verse emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating God’s love for us.
7. **Marriage: A Reflection of God’s Love**
Ephesians 5:25-28 compares the relationship between a husband and wife to the love Christ has for the church. It states, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her… In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies.”
8. **Forgiveness: A Testament of Love**
Colossians 3:13 instructs believers to forgive one another as the Lord has forgiven them. It says, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” This verse highlights the importance of showing love and forgiveness in relationships.
In conclusion, applying the concept of being the “apple of someone’s eye” to relationships involves cherishing, valuing, and loving one another deeply. By exemplifying the love and grace shown in the Bible, individuals can cultivate meaningful and lasting relationships built on mutual respect and affection.