### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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.
### Summary
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