The Greek word exastráptō, represented by G1823, is derived from ἐκ and ἀστράπτω, meaning to lighten forth. It is used figuratively to describe garments that are intensely radiant or glistening. This specific and powerful term appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, highlighting a moment of divine revelation.
The single biblical occurrence of G1823 is found in the account of the Transfiguration of Jesus. Luke's narrative describes the event: "And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering" Luke 9:29. Here, the word is used to convey a supernatural, brilliant radiance emanating from Jesus's clothing, a brightness that flashed like lightning, signifying His divine glory made visible.
The context of this unique word is built by several other Greek terms used in the same verse:
- G1096 gínomai (to become, be made): This verb signals a transformation. The appearance of Jesus's face was altered, and his clothing was white and glistering, indicating a change from one state to another Luke 9:29. This same word is used to express how believers might be made the righteousness of God 2 Corinthians 5:21.
- G1491 eîdos (appearance, fashion, shape): This word specifies what was altered—the fashion or outward appearance of Jesus's countenance Luke 9:29. It is also used to describe the visible shape of the Holy Ghost at Jesus's baptism Luke 3:22.
- G2087 héteros (other or different): This term defines the nature of the change. The fashion of Jesus's countenance was altered, becoming fundamentally different from its normal human appearance Luke 9:29.
- G3022 leukós (white): This adjective is paired directly with G1823 to describe the raiment. It was not just white, but a radiant, glistening white. This color is consistently linked to holiness and heaven, as seen in the great white throne Revelation 20:11 and the white raiment given to the faithful Revelation 3:5.
The theological weight of G1823 is tied entirely to its singular use at the Transfiguration.
- Visible Divine Glory: The event unfolds while Jesus prayed G4336, linking the stunning visual manifestation directly to His communion with the Father. The glistening of His garments was an outward sign of His inherent divine nature shining through His humanity Luke 9:29.
- Symbol of Absolute Purity: The combination of white G3022 and glistening G1823 points to a level of holiness and purity that is beyond earthly comparison. This brilliant whiteness is a hallmark of the divine realm, seen in the promise of white raiment for those who overcome Revelation 3:5.
- Foretaste of Glorified Reality: The Transfiguration provides a glimpse of Christ's future, glorified state. The radiant, glistening apparel is a preview of the majesty He possesses, and it echoes the promise that believers, too, will walk with him in white Revelation 3:4.
In summary, G1823 is a rare and vivid word reserved for a unique moment in scripture. Though used only once, exastráptō captures the essence of the Transfiguration—a flash of divine glory breaking into the visible world. It describes a radiance that is both a testament to Christ's holiness and a promise of the glorified reality awaiting the faithful. This single word powerfully illustrates how the Bible uses precise language to articulate profound, supernatural truths.
TRV