from a primary but obsolete verb (to veil as a bride; compare Latin "nupto," to marry); a young married woman (as veiled), including a betrothed girl; by implication, a son's wife:--bride, daughter in law.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nýmphē**, represented by `{{G3565}}`, is defined as a young married woman, a betrothed girl, or by implication, a son's wife. It appears **8 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. This term carries a dual meaning, referring to both a literal familial relationship and a profound, symbolic spiritual one.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G3565}}` is applied in two distinct contexts. Literally, it denotes a **daughter in law**, highlighting the potential for division within a family unit. This is seen in passages where Christ speaks of setting a **daughter in law** against her mother in law ([[Matthew 10:35]], [[Luke 12:53]]). Figuratively, and more frequently, it is used to represent a spiritual entity. The New Jerusalem is described as "prepared as a **bride** adorned for her husband" [[Revelation 21:2]], and this figure is later identified as "the **bride**, the Lamb's wife" [[Revelation 21:9]]. The term is also used to signify the absence of celebration during judgment, where the voice of the **bride** will be heard no more [[Revelation 18:23]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and meaning of **nýmphē**:
* `{{G3566}}` **nymphíos** (a bride-groom): This is the direct male counterpart to **bride**. Their connection is explicit in [[John 3:29]], which states, "He that hath the **bride** is the **bridegroom**."
* `{{G1135}}` **gynḗ** (a woman; specially, a wife): This term is used to define the **bride's** ultimate relationship in [[Revelation 21:9]], which refers to "the **bride**, the Lamb's **wife**."
* `{{G5384}}` **phílos** (a friend): This word describes an associate in the wedding context, such as the "**friend** of the bridegroom," who rejoices at the bridegroom's presence [[John 3:29]].
* `{{G5456}}` **phōnḗ** (a tone... an address... voice): The significance of the **bride** and bridegroom is often tied to their audible presence, as seen in the joy of the bridegroom's **voice** [[John 3:29]] and the silence that falls when their **voice** is no longer heard [[Revelation 18:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3565}}` is significant, particularly in its symbolic application.
* **Familial Allegiance:** In the Gospels, the use of **daughter in law** illustrates the radical commitment required of disciples, which may disrupt even the closest family bonds ([[Matthew 10:35]], [[Luke 12:53]]).
* **The Church Personified:** In Revelation, the **bride** is a powerful symbol for the New Jerusalem and the people of God. She is described as being "prepared" and "adorned" [[Revelation 21:2]], and explicitly called "the Lamb's wife" [[Revelation 21:9]].
* **Spiritual Invitation:** The **bride** takes an active role in the call to salvation. Alongside the Spirit, the **bride** issues the divine invitation, "Come" [[Revelation 22:17]], extending the offer of the water of life.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3565}}` transitions from a common social term to a title of great eschatological importance. While its literal use as **daughter in law** speaks to earthly relationships, its figurative use as the **bride** elevates it to a symbol of the purified Church, the New Jerusalem, in its awaited union with the Lamb. The word thus encapsulates both the cost of discipleship on earth and the glorious destiny of the redeemed.
TRV