Brief Overview of ἐκλάμπω (Strong’s G1584: eklámpō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is essential for grasping the full depth of the Scriptures. The Greek language, rich in nuance and meaning, often conveys ideas and concepts that are not easily captured in English translations. One such word is ἐκλάμπω (eklámpō), which appears in the New Testament and classical Greek literature, offering insight into both the spiritual and cultural contexts of the time. This word is particularly significant because it is used to describe a form of light or brilliance, often in relation to divine or heavenly appearances. By exploring this word, we can better understand its usage in the New Testament and its broader implications in Greek thought.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐκλάμπω (eklámpō) [ek-LAM-po]
• Etymology: Derived from the prefix ἐκ (ek), meaning “out of,” and the verb λάμπω (lámpō), meaning “to shine” or “to give light.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (Second Conjugation)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To Shine Out: The primary meaning of ἐκλάμπω is “to shine out,” indicating a source of light that radiates outwardly.
• To Emit Light: It also conveys the idea of emitting light, often in a way that is visible and noticeable to others.
• To Gleam or to Flash: In some contexts, it can mean “to gleam” or “to flash,” emphasizing the suddenness or intensity of the light.

Similar Words:

• λάμπω (lámpō) [LAM-po]: A related verb meaning “to shine,” but without the prefix ἐκ, which adds the sense of light coming out or shining forth.
• φαίνω (phaínō) [FIE-no]: Another related verb meaning “to appear” or “to shine,” often used in the context of light becoming visible.

Further Insights

• Morphology: ἐκλάμπω is a verb in the present tense, indicating a continuous or habitual action. Its usage in the New Testament often reflects an ongoing or repeated shining or radiating of light.
• Notable Linguistic Features: The prefix ἐκ- (ek-) intensifies the action of the verb, suggesting that the light is not just present but is actively shining outwards, often with a sense of purpose or divine intention.

Verb Conjugation Chart (Present Indicative Active)

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: The BDAG lexicon notes that ἐκλάμπω is used in contexts where light or radiance is emphasized, particularly in descriptions of divine or heavenly appearances.
• Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon highlights its usage in the New Testament, particularly in passages that describe the glory or brilliance associated with divine manifestations.
• Vine’s: Vine’s Expository Dictionary focuses on the verb’s connotation of brightness and visibility, often in the context of something being revealed or made manifest.
• LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides examples from classical Greek literature where ἐκλάμπω is used to describe the shining or gleaming of objects, such as polished metal or the sun.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s underscores the primary meaning of “to shine out,” with an emphasis on the verb’s usage in contexts of brightness and radiance, particularly in relation to divine glory.

Scripture References:

• Matthew 13:43: “Then the righteous will shine (ἐκλάμπω) like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let them hear.”
• 2 Corinthians 4:6: “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine (ἐκλάμπω) out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.”

Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature, ἐκλάμπω was used to describe the shining of objects, often in relation to divine or natural light.

Summary of ἐκλάμπω (G1584: eklámpō)

The Greek verb ἐκλάμπω (eklámpō) plays a crucial role in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, particularly in contexts involving light and radiance. Whether used to describe the physical shining of an object or the metaphorical radiance of truth or divine glory, this word carries a powerful sense of illumination and visibility. Understanding ἐκλάμπω enhances our interpretation of key Biblical passages and provides a deeper appreciation for the concept of light in both spiritual and cultural contexts.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, light was often associated with knowledge, truth, and divinity. The verb ἐκλάμπω, with its emphasis on shining out, reflects this cultural significance by portraying light as something that reveals and illuminates, often with divine implications. This concept is mirrored in many New Testament passages, where light is used as a metaphor for God’s presence and the revelation of His truth.