from ἐπιφαίνω; conspicuous, i.e. (figuratively) memorable:--notable.
Transliteration:epiphanḗs
Pronunciation:ep-if-an-ace'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective ἐπιφανής (epiphanḗs, `{{G2016}}`) is derived from the verb ἐπιφαίνω (epiphainō, `{{G2017}}`), which means "to appear," "to shine upon," or "to manifest." Consequently, ἐπιφανής carries the core meaning of "conspicuous," "manifest," "striking," or "prominent." It describes something that is clearly visible, stands out, or is undeniably evident. Figuratively, this leads to the sense of "memorable" or "notable," indicating an event or person so remarkable that it cannot be overlooked or forgotten. The underlying semantic range points to a quality of being overtly displayed or made known, often with an implication of grandeur or significance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἐπιφανής (epiphanḗs, `{{G2016}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Acts 2:20]]. In this pivotal passage, Peter, preaching on the Day of Pentecost, quotes the prophet Joel: "The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and **notable** day of the Lord." (KJV uses "notable"; other translations render it as "glorious," "splendid," or "manifest"). Here, the adjective modifies "day" (ἡμέρα), describing the eschatological "Day of the Lord." The use of ἐπιφανής emphasizes that this future day will be unmistakable and undeniable. It will be characterized by cosmic signs so dramatic that its arrival will be universally evident and impossible to ignore. The "notable" quality of the day underscores its public, visible, and impactful nature, signaling a decisive divine intervention in human history.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of ἐπιφανής (epiphanḗs, `{{G2016}}`) is richly connected to other Greek terms, particularly those signifying appearance, manifestation, and glory.
* **ἐπιφαίνω** (epiphainō, `{{G2017}}`): The verbal root, meaning "to shine upon," "to appear," or "to manifest." It is used in contexts of divine light shining ([[Luke 1:79]]) and the appearance of Christ's grace ([[Titus 2:11]], [[Titus 3:4]]).
* **ἐπιφάνεια** (epiphaneia, `{{G2015}}`): The noun form, meaning "appearance" or "manifestation." This term is crucial for understanding the theological significance, as it specifically refers to the visible manifestation of a divine being, notably the first and second comings of Christ ([[2 Timothy 1:10]], [[2 Timothy 4:1]], [[2 Timothy 4:8]], [[Titus 2:13]]). The "notable" day is thus a day of divine manifestation.
* **δόξα** (doxa, `{{G1391}}`): "Glory" or "splendor." The "notable" day of the Lord is often described in terms of divine glory, as God's power and majesty are conspicuously displayed.
* **ἔνδοξος** (endoxos, `{{G1741}}`): "Glorious," "honorable," "splendid," or "notable." This word shares a similar semantic range, often describing something or someone of high esteem and visible prominence.
* **σημεῖον** (semeion, `{{G4592}}`): "Sign" or "wonder." The cosmic phenomena preceding the "notable" day (sun darkened, moon to blood) are signs that make the day conspicuous and undeniable.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of ἐπιφανής (epiphanḗs, `{{G2016}}`) in [[Acts 2:20]] carries profound theological weight. By describing the "Day of the Lord" as "notable" or "conspicuous," the Holy Spirit, through Peter's sermon, emphasizes the absolute certainty and public nature of God's ultimate eschatological intervention. This day will not be a hidden or ambiguous event but one that is undeniably evident to all. It signifies:
1. **Divine Revelation:** The Day of the Lord will be a supreme act of divine self-revelation. God's power, justice, and sovereignty will be made manifest in a way that transcends all doubt.
2. **Unmistakable Judgment and Salvation:** The "notable" character implies that no one will be able to deny the arrival of this day or its implications. For those who have rejected God, it will be a day of undeniable judgment and terror. For believers, it will be a day of vindication, ultimate salvation, and the glorious manifestation of their Lord.
3. **Cosmic Impact:** The accompanying cosmic signs (darkened sun, bloodied moon) serve to make the day "notable," demonstrating the Creator's absolute control over creation and His intention to shake the very foundations of the cosmos to usher in His new order.
The word thus reinforces the biblical teaching that God's plan for history culminates in a visible, powerful, and universally recognized display of His divine will and presence.
### Summary
The Greek adjective ἐπιφανής (epiphanḗs, `{{G2016}}`) signifies "conspicuous," "manifest," or "notable," deriving from the verb "to appear" or "to shine upon." Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Acts 2:20]] is highly significant, describing the eschatological "Day of the Lord" as "great and notable." This usage underscores that the Day of the Lord will be an unmistakable, universally evident, and impactful event, marked by divine activity that is strikingly visible. Closely related to the concept of "epiphany" (divine manifestation), ἐπιφανής emphasizes the public, undeniable, and glorious nature of God's ultimate intervention in history, bringing forth both judgment and salvation.
TRV