The Greek word lampás, represented by G2985, refers to a "lamp" or flambeau. It appears 9 times in 9 unique verses. Its meaning encompasses handheld sources of light, such as a lamp, a light, or a torch, used for both literal illumination and powerful symbolic representation.
In the Bible, G2985 is used in several distinct contexts. Its most prominent use is in the Parable of the Ten Virgins, where the kingdom G932 of heaven G3772 is likened to ten virgins G3933 who took their lamps to meet the bridegroom Matthew 25:1. This parable emphasizes preparedness, as the wise took extra oil G1637 for their lamps, while the foolish did not (Matthew 25:4, Matthew 25:3). The word is also used literally to mean torches, which were carried alongside lanterns G5322 by the band that came with Judas to arrest Jesus John 18:3. In a vision of the heavenly throne, seven lamps of fire are seen burning G2545, which are identified as "the seven Spirits of God" Revelation 4:5.
Several related words help clarify the meaning and function of G2985:
- G1637 élaion (olive oil): This is the fuel for the lamp. Its importance is highlighted in the parable where the foolish virgins' lamps go out because they took no oil Matthew 25:8.
- G2545 kaíō (to set on fire, i.e. kindle or (by implication) consume): This word describes the state of a functioning lamp. It is used for the seven lamps of fire burning before the throne and the great star G792 from heaven burning like a lamp (Revelation 4:5, Revelation 8:10).
- G5322 phanós (a lightener, i.e. light; lantern): This term for lantern is used alongside torches G2985 during the arrest of Jesus, indicating two distinct but related types of portable lights used to navigate the darkness John 18:3.
The theological significance of G2985 is multifaceted, moving from a simple object to a profound symbol.
- Spiritual Preparedness: The lamp is a central symbol of readiness for the coming of the Lord. The Parable of the Ten Virgins uses the state of their lamps to distinguish between the wise and the foolish, tying the object directly to eschatological watchfulness Matthew 25:1-8.
- Divine Presence: The seven lamps of fire before God's throne are explicitly defined as "the seven Spirits of God" Revelation 4:5. Here, the lamp is elevated to represent the fullness of God's Spirit, a source of divine light and presence.
- Symbol of Judgment: In Revelation, a great star falls from heaven, "burning as it were a lamp" Revelation 8:10. In this context, the intense light of the lamp is associated not with guidance but with a cataclysmic event of divine judgment.
In summary, G2985 is far more than a simple word for a light source. It serves as a crucial element in one of Jesus' key parables about the kingdom G932 of heaven G3772, functioning as a powerful metaphor for spiritual readiness. Furthermore, in apocalyptic visions, it symbolizes the very presence of God's Spirit and the execution of His judgment. Whether as a literal torch in the night or a heavenly symbol, lampás consistently represents a source of powerful light with deep theological implications.
TRV