### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective G3720 (ὀρθρινός, *orthrinós*) is derived from the noun G3722 (ὄρθρος, *orthros*), which signifies "daybreak" or "early morning." Consequently, *orthrinós* fundamentally means "relating to the dawn" or "matutinal." It denotes that which pertains to the very earliest part of the day, specifically the period when light first begins to emerge, dispelling the darkness of night. The definition further elaborates on this sense of brilliance, noting its use as an epithet for Venus, the "morning star," which is particularly luminous in the pre-dawn sky. This suggests a nuance of not just "morning," but the *bright, emergent* aspect of morning, signaling a new beginning and the overcoming of darkness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G3720 (ὀρθρινός, *orthrinós*) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Revelation:
* **[[Revelation 2:28]]**: "and I will give him the morning star." This promise is made to the one who "overcomes" (νικῶν, *nikōn*) and "keeps My works until the end" (τὰ ἔργα μου ἄχρι τέλους). The phrase "morning star" here (τὸν ἀστέρα τὸν ὀρθρινόν, *ton astera ton orthrinon*) is highly symbolic. While some textual traditions read *prōïnos* (πρωϊνός) here, the presence of *orthrinós* in significant manuscripts underscores its connection to the breaking of a new day. This "morning star" is a profound symbol of hope, new beginnings, and triumph over darkness. Crucially, the identity of this "morning star" is explicitly revealed later in Revelation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is G3722 (ὄρθρος, *orthros*), the noun from which *orthrinós* is derived. *Orthros* refers to the literal daybreak or dawn, often associated with early morning activities or prayer, as seen in passages like [[Luke 24:1]] and [[John 8:2]]. The concept of "morning" or "dawn" in the Bible frequently carries rich symbolic weight, often pointing to:
* **New Beginnings:** The dawn signifies the end of a period of darkness or sorrow and the commencement of a new era.
* **Divine Revelation/Intervention:** God often acts or reveals Himself at dawn (e.g., [[Exodus 14:27]], [[Psalm 46:5]]).
* **Christological Imagery:** In the Old Testament, the "Sun of Righteousness" (`{{H8121}}`) is prophesied to rise with healing in its wings ([[Malachi 4:2]]), foreshadowing Christ. The New Testament explicitly identifies Jesus as "the bright and morning star" (ὁ ἀστὴρ ὁ λαμπρὸς ὁ πρωϊνός, *ho astēr ho lampros ho prōïnos*) in [[Revelation 22:16]]. While *prōïnos* is used there, the conceptual link to *orthrinós* is undeniable, as both refer to the star that heralds the new day.
* **Hope and Deliverance:** The breaking of dawn symbolizes the arrival of salvation and deliverance after a period of trial or waiting (e.g., [[Psalm 30:5]]).
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of G3720 in [[Revelation 2:28]] carries immense theological weight due to its symbolic identification with Christ. The "morning star" is not merely a celestial body but a profound title for Jesus Himself, as declared in [[Revelation 22:16]].
1. **Christ as the Herald of a New Age:** Just as the morning star precedes the rising sun and the full light of day, so Christ precedes and inaugurates the full glory of God's eternal kingdom. He is the sign of the coming new creation, the ultimate victory over sin, death, and darkness.
2. **Promise of Shared Glory and Authority:** The promise "I will give him the morning star" to the overcomer in [[Revelation 2:28]] signifies a profound participation in Christ's own glory, authority, and reign. It implies that those who faithfully endure will share in the dawning of His kingdom, reflecting His light and authority. This is not merely a reward but an intimate union with the Victorious One.
3. **Eschatological Hope:** The "morning star" points to the eschatological hope of believers—the sure promise of Christ's return and the ushering in of the eternal day where there will be no more night ([[Revelation 21:23-25]]). It is a beacon of hope in the midst of present darkness and suffering.
### Summary
The Greek word G3720 (ὀρθρινός, *orthrinós*) precisely captures the essence of "relating to the dawn" or "matutinal," emphasizing the brilliant, emergent light that heralds a new day. Its singular but profound use in [[Revelation 2:28]] as "the morning star" makes it a word of deep theological significance. This phrase, explicitly identified with Christ in [[Revelation 22:16]], symbolizes His role as the inaugurator of God's new creation, the ultimate hope, and the triumphant light that dispels all darkness. The promise to give the "morning star" to faithful overcomers signifies a participation in Christ's own glorious reign and the dawning of an eternal day of light and righteousness.
TRV