### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kaíō**, represented by `{{G2545}}`, is a primary verb that means **to set on fire, i.e. kindle or (by implication) consume**. It appears **12 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible. Its application covers both the literal act of igniting a flame and the figurative or divine act of consumption by fire.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G2545}}` appears in several key contexts. It is frequently used to describe divine judgment and destruction, as seen in the lake which **burneth** with fire and brimstone [[Revelation 21:8]] and in the fate of fruitless branches that are cast into the fire and **burned** [[John 15:6]]. The word is also used to signify illumination, such as when men **light** a candle [[Matthew 5:15]] or when John the Baptist is described as a **burning** and shining light [[John 5:35]]. It can also convey intense spiritual or emotional experience, as when the disciples’ hearts **burn** within them upon understanding the scriptures [[Luke 24:32]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of fire, light, and consumption:
* `{{G4442}}` **pŷr** (fire): This is the literal element of combustion, often paired with `{{G2545}}` to describe the means of burning, such as the "great mountain **burning** with **fire**" [[Revelation 8:8]] or the mount that **burned** with **fire** at Sinai [[Hebrews 12:18]].
* `{{G3088}}` **lýchnos** (a portable lamp or other illuminator): This is the object being lit. It is used in the command to keep your **lights burning** [[Luke 12:35]] and in the description of a **candle** that men **light** to illuminate a house [[Matthew 5:15]].
* `{{G3583}}` **xēraínō** (to desiccate; by implication, to shrivel, to mature): This word describes a state of readiness for burning. A branch that does not abide in Christ first "is **withered**" before it is gathered to be **burned** [[John 15:6]].
* `{{G906}}` **bállō** (to throw): This verb often precedes the act of burning, describing how something is delivered to the fire, as when the beast and false prophet were **cast** alive into the lake of fire [[Revelation 19:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2545}}` is significant, touching on themes of judgment, readiness, and divine revelation.
* **Divine Judgment:** The word is a stark descriptor of final judgment, portraying the ultimate consequence for the unrepentant in the "lake of fire **burning** with brimstone" [[Revelation 19:20]]. It also serves as a warning for unfruitfulness [[John 15:6]].
* **Faithful Witness:** To have one's lights **burning** [[Luke 12:35]] is a command for spiritual vigilance and readiness. It is also a mark of a powerful witness, as John the Baptist was a "**burning** and a shining light" [[John 5:35]].
* **Spiritual Fervor:** The term is used to describe a heart ignited by divine truth. The disciples' hearts **burn** when they finally understand the scriptures as explained by the risen Christ, signifying an intense spiritual passion [[Luke 24:32]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2545}}` is a powerful word that conveys more than the simple act of setting something on fire. It carries the dual biblical concepts of destructive judgment and purifying light. From the warning of a consuming fire to the call for a burning lamp of testimony, **kaíō** serves as a critical term for understanding divine justice, spiritual readiness, and the passionate response of a heart set ablaze by God's word.
TRV