### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **idéa**, represented by `{{G2397}}`, is defined as a **sight** or **aspect**, and is translated as **countenance**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible. This singular use provides a powerful visual description of a divine being's appearance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G2397}}` is used to describe the angel at Christ's tomb. The verse states, "His **countenance** was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow" [[Matthew 28:3]]. This context links the word directly to the depiction of a heavenly messenger, whose appearance reflects a supernatural brilliance and power associated with the resurrection. The term conveys an aspect so intense it can only be compared to a natural force.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from the same passage help build the full picture of this divine manifestation:
* `{{G796}}` **astrapḗ** (lightning; by analogy, glare): This word is used as the direct comparison for the angel's **countenance**, emphasizing its terrifying brilliance. It is also used in descriptions of Satan's fall from heaven [[Luke 10:18]] and events proceeding from God's throne [[Revelation 4:5]].
* `{{G1742}}` **éndyma** (apparel (especially the outer robe)): This term for **raiment** is used in parallel to describe the angel's clothing. Clothing in scripture often signifies spiritual state or identity, as seen with John the Baptist's raiment of camel's hair [[Matthew 3:4]] or the warning against false prophets in sheep's clothing [[Matthew 7:15]].
* `{{G3022}}` **leukós** (white): This descriptor is applied to the angel's raiment. The color **white** is consistently associated with heavenly glory and purity, such as the great **white** throne [[Revelation 20:11]] and the robes of the redeemed in heaven [[Revelation 7:9]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2397}}` is concentrated in its single, dramatic use.
* **Manifestation of Heavenly Glory:** The use of `{{G2397}}` to describe an angel's appearance as **like lightning** establishes a direct link between the visual aspect of a divine messenger and the awesome power of God.
* **Symbol of Resurrection Power:** The angel's brilliant **countenance** is not merely a physical description but a sign of the victory over death that has just occurred. It is a visual testament to the power of the resurrection, which the angel is there to announce.
* **A Glimpse of the Divine:** The overwhelming brightness of the angel's face serves as a reflection of God's glory. The imagery of lightning connects this appearance to other biblical visions of God's throne, where **lightnings** and thunderings are present [[Revelation 4:5]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2397}}` is a uniquely specific term whose meaning is defined entirely by its context in the resurrection narrative. While it literally means **aspect** or **countenance**, its biblical role is to provide a key descriptor for the divine messenger at Christ's empty tomb. It uses the vivid imagery of lightning to convey a supernatural glory and power that is central to the Christian faith.
TRV