Mark 4:12 Cross-References

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge compiled by R.A. Torrey from work by Thomas Scott says the following about Jesus' words:

"The expression appears to be proverbial; and relates to those who might see what they now overlook through inattention and folly."

There does not appear to be anything in the original Greek which indicates that Jesus is actively seeking to blind and deafen his listeners.  Rather, it is a restatement of old testament texts that highlight the Jews' rebellion against their God.