### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **leukaínō**, represented by `{{G3021}}`, means **to whiten** or **make white**. It is derived from the word λευκός, meaning white. Appearing only **3 times** in **2 unique verses**, its rarity underscores its significant use in describing a divine or supernatural whitening process.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3021}}` is used in two distinct and powerful contexts. In the account of the Transfiguration, the raiment of Jesus became a brilliant white that no earthly process could replicate, as "no **fuller** on **earth** **can** **white** them" [[Mark 9:3]]. This usage points to a divine glory. In Revelation, the term describes a spiritual cleansing, where a great multitude has "washed their robes, and **made** them **white** in the **blood** of the Lamb" [[Revelation 7:14]]. This paradoxically presents blood as the agent of ultimate purification for those who have come through **great** **tribulation** [[Revelation 7:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the unique meaning of `{{G3021}}`:
* `{{G3022}}` **leukós** (white): As the root word, it establishes the fundamental concept of whiteness and purity seen in Jesus's transfigured raiment and the robes of the saints ([[Mark 9:3]], [[Revelation 7:9]]).
* `{{G1102}}` **gnapheús** (a cloth-dresser): This word, translated as "fuller," is used to create a benchmark for earthly cleaning, highlighting that the whitening of Jesus's garments was supernaturally superior to any human effort [[Mark 9:3]].
* `{{G4150}}` **plýnō** (to "plunge", i.e. launder clothing): This term for washing is paired directly with **leukaínō** to describe the two-fold process of spiritual cleansing for the redeemed [[Revelation 7:14]].
* `{{G129}}` **haîma** (blood): Used paradoxically as the purifying agent, the **blood** of the Lamb is what makes the robes of the saints white, signifying atonement and redemption [[Revelation 7:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3021}}` centers on the theme of divine transformation.
* **Supernatural Glory:** The use of **leukaínō** in the Transfiguration signifies a purity and brilliance that is not of this world. It is a manifestation of divine nature, surpassing any whitening process a **fuller** on **earth** `{{G1093}}` could achieve [[Mark 9:3]].
* **Redemptive Purity:** In Revelation, the act to **make** robes **white** `{{G3021}}` is not a physical act but a spiritual one. It is accomplished **in** `{{G1722}}` the **blood** `{{G129}}` of the Lamb `{{G721}}`, illustrating that justification is possible only through Christ's atoning sacrifice [[Revelation 7:14]].
* **The State of the Vindicated:** Those whose robes are **made** **white** are identified as the ones who have **come** `{{G2064}}` out of **great** **tribulation** `{{G2347}}`. This indicates that enduring suffering in faith leads to a state of ultimate purification and righteousness before God [[Revelation 7:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3021}}` is a specific and impactful term for a whitening that transcends the physical realm. It is used to illustrate both the inherent divine glory of Christ and the spiritual purification granted to believers through His sacrifice. By contrasting this divine whitening with the limited abilities of an earthly **fuller** [[Mark 9:3]] and identifying the **blood** of the Lamb as its source [[Revelation 7:14]], scripture uses **leukaínō** to define a holiness that comes from God alone.
TRV