### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word λίνον (línon, `{{G3043}}`) primarily refers to "flax," the plant *Linum usitatissimum*, from which fibers are extracted. By metonymy, it also denotes "linen," the fabric woven from these fibers. The base definition indicates it is likely a primary word, suggesting its fundamental place in the Greek lexicon for describing this essential material. In ancient contexts, flax was cultivated for various purposes, including oil from its seeds and fibers for textiles, ropes, and lamp wicks. Its semantic range is thus confined to the plant itself and the products derived from its fibers.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term λίνον (línon, `{{G3043}}`) appears twice in the New Testament, each instance offering a distinct yet profound contextual nuance:
1. **[[Matthew 12:20]]**: "A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he brings justice to victory." Here, λίνον is translated as "wick" (specifically, a "flax wick"). This verse is a quotation from [[Isaiah 42:3]], part of a prophecy concerning the Messiah. A "smoldering wick" (or "smoking flax") refers to a lamp wick that is barely burning, producing smoke rather than light, on the verge of going out completely. In this context, it symbolizes the weak, the struggling, the marginalized, or those whose faith or hope is dim and fragile. The Messiah's refusal to "snuff out" such a wick underscores His profound compassion, patience, and restorative power, indicating He does not extinguish the faint spark of life or hope but rather nurtures it.
2. **[[Revelation 15:6]]**: "Out of the temple came the seven angels with the seven plagues. They were dressed in clean, shining linen and wore golden sashes around their chests." In this apocalyptic vision, λίνον refers to the fabric "linen," specifically "clean, shining linen." This describes the raiment of the angels who are about to execute God's final judgments. In biblical symbolism, especially in the Old Testament (e.g., priestly garments, `{{H906}}`), white or clean linen consistently signifies purity, righteousness, holiness, and divine service. The "shining" quality further emphasizes the celestial and glorious nature of these divine messengers, highlighting their unblemished character and the absolute righteousness of God's impending judgment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The word λίνον (línon, `{{G3043}}`) connects to several significant biblical concepts and related terms:
* **Old Testament Parallels**: The Hebrew word H906 (בד, *bad*) frequently denotes "linen," particularly in contexts related to the tabernacle, temple, and priestly garments (e.g., [[Exodus 28:42]], [[Leviticus 6:10]]). This establishes a strong Old Testament precedent for linen as a symbol of purity and sacredness, which resonates with its use in Revelation.
* **Symbolism of White/Clean Garments**: λίνον in Revelation aligns with the broader biblical motif of white or clean garments as symbols of purity, righteousness, and divine approval. Other Greek words like `{{G3022}}` (λευκός, *leukos*, "white") are often used in conjunction with garments to convey similar meanings (e.g., [[Revelation 3:4-5]], [[Revelation 7:9]], [[Revelation 19:8]]).
* **Lamp/Light Imagery**: In Matthew, the "smoldering wick" relates to the concepts of light (`{{G5457}}`, φῶς, *phōs*) and lamp (`{{G3088}}`, λύχνος, *lychnos*). The preservation of the wick signifies the preservation of a diminishing light or hope.
* **Fabric/Clothing**: More generally, λίνον falls under the category of textiles and clothing, alongside terms like `{{G4749}}` (στολή, *stolē*, "robe") or `{{G2440}}` (ἱμάτιον, *himation*, "garment").
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of λίνον (línon, `{{G3043}}`) is rich and multifaceted, derived from its distinct applications:
* **Messianic Compassion and Restoration (Matthew 12:20)**: The "smoldering wick" vividly portrays the tender, non-destructive character of Christ's ministry. He does not crush the weak, the broken, or those whose spiritual light is dim. Instead, He patiently nurtures the faintest spark of faith or hope, bringing it to full fruition. This imagery underscores God's profound grace and mercy towards human frailty, offering hope and restoration to the marginalized and struggling. It reveals a Savior who sustains rather than extinguishes.
* **Divine Purity and Righteousness (Revelation 15:6)**: The "clean, shining linen" worn by the angels signifies their absolute holiness, purity, and readiness to execute God's righteous judgments. This imagery reinforces the consistent biblical portrayal of linen as a symbol of righteousness and sacredness, particularly associated with those who serve in God's presence. It underscores the unblemished character of God's heavenly agents and, by extension, the perfect justice and holiness of God Himself, especially as His eschatological purposes unfold.
### Summary
The Greek word λίνον (línon, `{{G3043}}`), denoting "flax" and "linen," carries profound theological weight across its two New Testament occurrences. In [[Matthew 12:20]], as a "smoldering wick," it beautifully illustrates the Messiah's gentle compassion and steadfast commitment to nurturing the weakest and most vulnerable, refusing to extinguish even the faintest spark of hope or faith. This highlights Christ's restorative and preserving grace. Conversely, in [[Revelation 15:6]], λίνον describes the "clean, shining linen" garments of angels, symbolizing divine purity, righteousness, and readiness for sacred service. This usage aligns with the broader biblical symbolism of white linen representing holiness and the unblemished nature of God's heavenly agents and His ultimate justice. Thus, λίνον serves as a powerful biblical term, encapsulating both the tender mercy of God towards human frailty and the radiant holiness of the divine realm.
TRV