### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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.
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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