### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb eklámpō (`{{G1584}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition ek (ἐκ), meaning "out from" or "out of," and the verb lámpō (λάμπω, `{{G2989}}`), meaning "to shine" or "to give light." The combination thus signifies a powerful and outward emanation of light: "to shine forth," "to radiate brilliantly," or "to be resplendent." It suggests not merely a passive state of being bright, but an active bursting forth of light, making something conspicuously visible and glorious. The prefix ek intensifies the action of lámpō, emphasizing the origin and direction of the light's emergence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb eklámpō (`{{G1584}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Matthew:
* **[[Matthew 13:43]]**: "Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear."
This singular occurrence is profoundly significant, found within Jesus' explanation of the Parable of the Weeds (Tares). Following the separation of the "sons of the evil one" and "all causes of sin and all law-breakers" who will be cast into the "furnace of fire" ([[Matthew 13:41-42]]), Jesus declares the destiny of the righteous. The image of the righteous "shining forth as the sun" is an eschatological promise, depicting their ultimate vindication and glorification in the Father's kingdom. The comparison to the sun emphasizes unparalleled brilliance, clarity, and an undeniable, pervasive presence. It speaks to a revelation of their true nature, transformed and glorified, in stark contrast to the darkness and destruction awaiting the wicked. This shining is not merely an external display but a manifestation of their inherent righteousness, now fully revealed and acknowledged by God.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of eklámpō (`{{G1584}}`) is rich with related terms concerning light, glory, and revelation:
* **lámpō (λάμπω, `{{G2989}}`)**: The root verb, meaning "to shine" or "to give light." It is used in contexts like the light of a lamp ([[Matthew 5:15]]) or the transfigured face of Jesus ([[Matthew 17:2]]).
* **phōs (φῶς, `{{G5457}}`)**: The most common Greek word for "light," used literally for physical light but also extensively metaphorically for truth, righteousness, life, and God's presence ([[John 1:4-5]], [[1 John 1:5]]).
* **phōtizō (φωτίζω, `{{G5461}}`)**: "To enlighten," "to illuminate," or "to shed light upon." It often refers to spiritual illumination or revelation ([[Ephesians 1:18]], [[Hebrews 6:4]]).
* **doxa (δόξα, `{{G1391}}`)**: "Glory," "splendor," or "majesty." This term frequently describes the divine radiance and honor, often linked to the manifestation of God's presence ([[Romans 3:23]], [[2 Corinthians 3:18]]). The "shining forth" of the righteous in [[Matthew 13:43]] is deeply connected to this concept of divine glory.
* **phaneroō (φανερόω, `{{G5319}}`)**: "To make manifest," "to reveal," or "to appear." While not directly related by root, the concept of eklámpō implies a powerful manifestation or revelation of something previously hidden or obscured.
The concept of "shining" is also prominent in Old Testament prophetic literature concerning the righteous and the coming messianic age (e.g., [[Daniel 12:3]], where the wise "shine like the brightness of the expanse").
### Theological Significance
The sole use of eklámpō (`{{G1584}}`) in [[Matthew 13:43]] carries profound theological weight:
1. **Divine Vindication and Glorification:** The "shining forth" of the righteous is a clear declaration of their divine vindication. In a world where their righteousness may have been overlooked, persecuted, or obscured, God Himself will reveal their true status. This act of shining is a bestowal of glory, making them resplendent, reflecting the very light of God. It signifies their participation in God's own splendor within His kingdom.
2. **Eschatological Hope:** This verse offers a powerful vision of future hope for believers. It assures that the current struggles, injustices, and hiddenness of the righteous will culminate in a glorious revelation. The future Kingdom of the Father is a realm of ultimate justice and radiant truth, where the righteous will be fully recognized and exalted. This hope serves as a motivation for perseverance in righteousness despite present trials.
3. **Transformation and Identity:** The image suggests a profound transformation. The righteous do not merely *receive* light; they *become* light, radiating it from within. This aligns with the New Testament theme of believers being conformed to the image of Christ, who is the "light of the world" ([[John 8:12]]). Their shining reflects their new nature and identity as children of God.
4. **Contrast with Darkness and Judgment:** The context of the Parable of the Weeds highlights a stark contrast. While the wicked face darkness, weeping, and gnashing of teeth, the righteous are bathed in brilliant light. This emphasizes the ultimate separation and the distinct destinies determined by one's relationship with God. Light is intrinsically linked to life, truth, and God's presence, while darkness signifies judgment and separation from Him.
### Summary
Eklámpō (`{{G1584}}`) is a potent Greek verb meaning "to shine forth" or "to be resplendent," emphasizing a powerful and outward emanation of light. Its singular but highly significant occurrence in [[Matthew 13:43]] describes the glorious destiny of the righteous. In the Kingdom of their Father, they will "shine forth as the sun," a vivid image signifying their divine vindication, ultimate glorification, and profound transformation. This shining is a manifestation of their true identity in Christ, offering a powerful eschatological hope that contrasts sharply with the judgment awaiting the wicked, underscoring the triumph of light over darkness in the consummation of God's redemptive plan.
TRV