Bible Dictionary
OPEN
To open means to uncover, unclose, or make accessible, whether referring to eyes, mouths, doors, heavens, or understanding. Scripture also says that all things are laid open before God.
Definition
To open means to uncover, unclose, expose, or make accessible. It may describe the opening of eyes, mouths, heavens, doors, and other objects, or the unveiling of understanding and vision. A related New Testament expression means to be laid bare before God.
Biblical Usage
Biblical usage includes eyes opened in visions, mouths and doors opened, and the heavens opened. Hebrews says that all things are laid open before God, using an expression literally associated with having the neck bent back or being exposed.
Historical Background
The Old Testament term is chiefly pathach, with other words meaning to uncover. The usual New Testament word is anoigo, while Hebrews uses the distinctive term trachelizomai.
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>o'-p'-n: In the Old Testament represents chiefly pathach, but also other words, as galah, "to uncover"; of the opening of the eyes in vision, etc. (thus Balaam, Nu 22:31; 24:4; compare Job 33:16; 36:10; Ps 119:18; Jer 32:11,14). In the New Testament the usual word is anoigo (of opening of mouth, eyes, heavens, doors, etc.). A peculiar word, trachelizomai (literally, to have the neck bent back, to be laid bare), is used for "laid open" before God in Heb 4:13.</p>