perhaps from ἐρέω (as a symbol of the female messenger of the pagan deities); a rainbow ("iris"):--rainbow.
Transliteration:îris
Pronunciation:ee'-ris
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ἶρις (G2463) literally denotes a "rainbow." Its base definition, as provided, suggests a potential etymological link to ἐρέω (to speak or say), perhaps alluding to its ancient association with Iris, the female messenger of the pagan deities. This etymological hint is significant as it underscores the concept of the rainbow as a *sign* or *message*. However, within the biblical context, this pagan association is entirely recontextualized and divinely repurposed. The semantic range of ἶρις in the New Testament is remarkably narrow, exclusively referring to the atmospheric phenomenon of the rainbow, yet it is profoundly imbued with theological meaning as a visible manifestation of divine promise and presence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἶρις (G2463) appears twice in the New Testament, both instances found within the book of Revelation, where it is consistently associated with divine majesty and covenant faithfulness.
1. **[[Revelation 4:3]]**: "And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardius stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald." Here, the rainbow encircles the very throne of God. Its presence immediately surrounding the divine majesty signifies God's covenant faithfulness as an inherent attribute of His reign. The description of its appearance "like unto an emerald" suggests a vibrant, refreshing, and calming green hue, perhaps conveying God's life-giving presence and the enduring nature of His promises even amidst the awe-inspiring and potentially fearsome glory of His throne. It serves as a perpetual reminder of God's covenant commitment enveloping His ultimate authority.
2. **[[Revelation 10:1]]**: "And I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud: and a rainbow was upon his head, and his face was as it were the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire:" In this passage, the rainbow is positioned "upon the head" of a mighty angel. This angel is depicted as a powerful divine messenger, and the rainbow on his head signifies that the authority and message he bears are rooted in God's covenant faithfulness. It underscores that even the unfolding of divine judgments and prophetic declarations (as seen in Revelation) are conducted within the framework of God's overarching promises and His unwavering commitment to His plan. The rainbow here acts as a divine emblem, indicating the source and nature of the angel's commission.
While ἶρις itself is a Greek term used only in the New Testament, its theological significance is deeply rooted in the Old Testament concept of the rainbow as a sign of God's covenant with Noah (cf. [[Genesis 9:12-17]]). Although the Septuagint typically uses τόξον (`{{H7198}}`, "bow") to refer to the rainbow in Genesis, the *concept* of the rainbow as a divine sign of promise is foundational to understanding its New Testament usage.
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of ἶρις (G2463) is enriched by its conceptual links to several key biblical terms and themes:
* **Covenant (διαθήκη, `{{G1242}}`)**: The most fundamental connection. The rainbow is universally recognized in Scripture as the sign of God's covenant with Noah, promising never to destroy the earth by flood again. In Revelation, its presence around God's throne reinforces the enduring nature of God's covenants.
* **Sign (σημεῖον, `{{G4592}}`)**: The rainbow functions as a visible token or sign of God's promise and presence. It is a tangible assurance of His faithfulness.
* **Glory (δόξα, `{{G1391}}`)**: In Revelation, the rainbow is inextricably linked to the manifestation of God's glory and majesty, surrounding His throne and adorning His messengers.
* **Throne (θρόνος, `{{G2362}}`)**: The specific placement of the rainbow around God's throne in [[Revelation 4:3]] emphasizes its connection to divine sovereignty and authority.
* **Messenger (ἄγγελος, `{{G32}}`)**: The appearance of the rainbow on the head of the mighty angel in [[Revelation 10:1]] subtly echoes the ancient association of Iris as a messenger, but now in a divinely appointed capacity, signifying the covenantal basis of God's communication.
* **Bow (τόξον, `{{H7198}}` in Hebrew, used in LXX for rainbow)**: The Hebrew word for "bow" (קֶשֶׁת) is used in [[Genesis 9]] to denote the rainbow. This provides the Old Testament theological antecedent for the New Testament's use of ἶρις.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἶρις (G2463) is profound, extending far beyond its literal meaning to encapsulate core truths about God's character and His relationship with creation:
1. **Divine Faithfulness and Unwavering Covenant**: The primary theological message of the rainbow is God's enduring faithfulness. It is a perpetual reminder of the Noahic covenant, signifying God's steadfast commitment to His promises. In Revelation, its presence around the throne and on the angel's head assures believers that even amidst prophecies of judgment and tribulation, God's covenant promises remain firm and His character unchanging.
2. **Mercy Amidst Judgment**: Appearing in the highly eschatological and judgmental book of Revelation, the rainbow serves as a powerful symbol of God's mercy framing His judgment. It reminds us that even when God acts in judgment, His actions are always consistent with His covenant promises and His underlying desire for redemption. The "emerald" color in [[Revelation 4:3]] can be seen as a calming, life-affirming hue amidst the awesome power of God's throne, symbolizing hope and grace.
3. **Majesty and Transcendence**: The rainbow encircling God's throne underscores His supreme majesty, glory, and transcendence. It is an integral part of the divine aura, signifying the beauty, order, and faithfulness inherent in God's being.
4. **Hope and Assurance**: For the believer, the rainbow offers immense hope and assurance. It is a visible pledge from God that He remembers His promises, that He is in control, and that His ultimate plan for salvation and restoration will be perfectly fulfilled. It provides comfort that even in times of divine wrath or cosmic upheaval, God's covenant love prevails.
### Summary
The Greek word ἶρις (G2463), meaning "rainbow," appears exclusively in the book of Revelation, where it serves as a potent symbol of God's enduring faithfulness and covenant commitment. In [[Revelation 4:3]], it encircles the divine throne, signifying God's unwavering promises as an intrinsic aspect of His majesty. In [[Revelation 10:1]], it adorns a mighty angel, indicating that divine messages and judgments are delivered within the framework of God's steadfast covenant. Rooted in the Old Testament's Noahic covenant, ἶρις theologically represents God's perpetual faithfulness, His mercy intertwined with judgment, His supreme majesty, and a profound source of hope and assurance for believers in His unfailing promises.
TRV