[Greek] θεωρέω (theōreō), [Latin] contemplatio: to behold, to gaze, to look with purpose, to scrutinize, to be a spectator, to contemplate, to consider, to look upon, to discern, to grasp the circumstances; 61 scriptures
Samson makes a “spectacle” of himself showing off his feats of strength (Judges 16:27)
Background Information:
Ancient Greece/Hellenism: Seeing was very important to the Greeks. There are several verbs to illustrate the various aspects of seeing. This basic sense of the Greek word theoreo is giving attention to a spectacle. These situations occur when one attends a festival, cultic ceremony, procession, or state function. The Greek polytheism may be regarded as a religion of vision. The gods were anthromorphized (given human like qualities) in mythology and poetry. The Greeks’ intellectual striving and search is always a seeing. However, philosophy emphasized the invisibility of the gods.
Old Testament: This Greek term mostly denotes sense perception. This is found in spectators watching Samson’s making sports, participating in a festival, and watching processions. This also suggests participation in cultic events.
Gnosticism: For the most part, Gnosticism hold that God is invisible by nature. However, when that person attains that divine nature, he can see God. This essential change is brought about by gnosis, which makes it possible to see God. Gnosticism claims that only a few are allowed to have this access or insight.
New Testament: There extensive examples of seeing, watching and holding.
Scripture:
“Stephen said, ‘Behold, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God’”. Act.7:56
Stephen was a spectator, watching closely his ultimate destination in heaven.
“Then Paul stood up at the Areopagus and said, ‘You Athenians, I see that in every respect you are very religious.’” Act. 17:22
Paul understood that despite their polytheism, the Athenians were essentially religious people.
“Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever keeps My word will never see death.” Jn. 8:51
Jesus states that those, who follow Him, will experience everlasting life.
Conclusion:
Theory, theoretical, contemplation
Essentially, in order to come up with a theory, one must first understand and contemplate his perceived surroundings. In theory, contemplating about God can become like prayer.