περιαστράπτω
to flash all around, i.e. envelop in light
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to flash all around, i.e. envelop in light
περιαστράπτω(periastráptō)
Strong’s Definition
to flash all around, i.e. envelop in light
from G4012 (περί) and G797 (ἀστράπτω);
“And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:”
No verses found containing this word study ID.
Strong's G4015: A compound verb combining περί (around) and ἀστράπτω (to flash like lightning), meaning "to flash around, shine around like lightning." Used exclusively in Acts to describe the divine light that surrounded Paul during his Damascus Road encounter with the risen Christ.
U- Unveiling the Word
Περιαστράπτω represents a dramatic manifestation of divine glory through overwhelming light. This compound word combines the encompassing aspect of περί with the brilliant flashing of ἀστράπτω, creating a powerful image of complete supernatural illumination. In the New Testament, it appears only in accounts of Paul's conversion, where it describes the overwhelming divine light that surrounded him. This word carries deep theological significance as it represents divine intervention, spiritual illumination, and transformative encounter with Christ. Early church writers often used this term to describe dramatic conversion experiences and moments of divine revelation, and today it continues to symbolize God's power to dramatically intervene and transform lives.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
For compound words: The prefix περί adds "all around" to ἀστράπτω "to flash like lightning," creating the image of being completely surrounded by brilliant light
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
Verbal Features:
Examples: flash around, flashed around, flashing around
S - Studying Lexicon Insights
BDAG emphasizes its exclusively supernatural usage. Thayer's notes its dramatic visual impact. LSJ connects it to natural lightning phenomena. Vine's highlights its theophanic significance. Strong's emphasizes the encompassing nature of the light. Moulton and Milligan note its rarity in non-biblical texts.
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T - Tracing the Scriptures
First appearance:
"As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven [flashed around] him." (Acts 9:3)
Additional References:
Acts 22:6
A - Analyzing Classical Usage
N - Noteworthy Summary
Περιαστράπτω powerfully captures the transformative nature of divine encounter. Just as Paul was surrounded by supernatural light that changed his life forever, this word reminds us that the gospel of King Jesus breaks into our lives with overwhelming power and glory, capable of transforming even the most determined opponent into a devoted follower.
D - Did You Know?
Strong's G4015: Rare compound verb describing supernatural light completely surrounding a person. Used exclusively for Paul's Damascus Road experience, emphasizing divine intervention through overwhelming celestial brilliance. Symbolizes transformative spiritual encounters.
Part of speech: Verb
Tags: #PaulConversion #DamascusRoad #DivineLight #Theophany #Transformation #Revelation #Supernatural #BiblicalGreek #CompoundVerbs #DivineManifestation