### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epiphaúō**, represented by `{{G2017}}`, is a form of ἐπιφαίνω that means to **illuminate** in a figurative sense, or to **give light**. It appears 2 times within 1 unique verse in the Bible, highlighting a specific and powerful theological concept.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical appearance of `{{G2017}}` is in [[Ephesians 5:14]], where it is used twice. The verse issues a call to action: "Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall **give** thee **light**." In this context, the word signifies the divine illumination provided by Christ to those who awaken from a state of spiritual death.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the passage provide deeper context for the act of giving light:
* `{{G450}}` **anístēmi**: Defined as to stand up or **arise**. This word is directly paired with `{{G2017}}` in the command to "**arise** from the dead" before the promise of light is given [[Ephesians 5:14]].
* `{{G5547}}` **Christós**: Meaning the **anointed** or the Messiah. The passage explicitly names **Christ** as the one who will give light, identifying him as the source of this illumination [[Ephesians 5:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2017}}` is concentrated in its single usage, which connects several crucial ideas:
* **Spiritual Awakening:** The act of giving light is tied to the command to "Awake thou that sleepest" [[Ephesians 5:14]]. This positions the illumination from Christ as the catalyst for leaving a state of spiritual inactivity or death.
* **Life from Death:** The promise that Christ will **give light** `{{G2017}}` immediately follows the instruction to **arise** `{{G450}}` from the dead. This links the concept of divine light directly with resurrection and the reception of new life.
* **Christ as the Source:** The passage leaves no ambiguity about the origin of this light. It is **Christ** `{{G5547}}` who illuminates the individual, establishing his role as the giver of spiritual life and awareness [[Ephesians 5:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2017}}` **epiphaúō** is more than just a word for light; it represents a profound spiritual event. Used exclusively in [[Ephesians 5:14]], it illustrates the transformative power of Christ, who illuminates those who turn from spiritual death and slumber. This single verse frames divine light not as mere information, but as the very essence of spiritual resurrection and new life.
TRV