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.
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.
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.
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.
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