Easton's Bible Dictionary: M. G. Easton, M.A., D.D.
Blind beggars are frequently mentioned (Mt. 9:27, 12:22, 20:30; Jn. 5:3). The blind are to be treated with compassion (Lev. 19:14; Dt. 27:18). Blindness was sometimes a punishment for disobedience (1 Sam. 11:2; Jer. 39:7), sometimes the effect of old age (Gen. 27:1; 1 Ki. 14:4; 1 Sam. 4:15). Conquerors sometimes blinded their captives (2 Ki. 25:7; 1 Sam. 11:2). Blindness denotes ignorance as to spiritual things (Isa. 6:10, 42:18, 19; Mt. 15:14; Eph. 4:18). The opening of the eyes of the blind is peculiar to the Messiah (Isa. 29:18). Elymas was smitten with blindness at Paul's word (Acts 13:11).