### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **periastráptō**, represented by `{{G4015}}`, describes an intense, encompassing light. Its definition, "to flash all around, i.e. envelop in light," is derived from its components περί and ἀστράπτω. This specific verb appears **3 times** across **2 unique verses**, highlighting its use in describing a singular, powerful type of event.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G4015}}` is used exclusively to describe the pivotal moment on the road to Damascus. As a man journeyed, "suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven" [[Acts 9:3]]. In a later retelling of the event, the speaker recounts, "suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me" [[Acts 22:6]]. The word is used to convey the sudden, overwhelming, and completely surrounding nature of this divine manifestation.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of `{{G4015}}` is clarified by the words used in conjunction with it:
* `{{G5457}}` **phōs** (light): Defined as "luminousness (in the widest application, natural or artificial, abstract or concrete, literal or figurative):--fire, light." This is the substance that envelops the individual.
* `{{G3772}}` **ouranós** (heaven): Defined as "the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of God); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the Gospel (Christianity):--air, heaven(-ly), sky." This identifies the origin of the light, marking it as a celestial or divine event.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4015}}` is tied directly to the source and nature of the light it describes.
* **Divine Origin:** The light originates from `{{G3772}}` **heaven**, which is described as the "abode of God" ([[Acts 9:3]], [[Acts 22:6]]). This establishes the event as a direct intervention from a divine source, not a natural phenomenon.
* **Transformative Revelation:** This light is a catalyst for turning "from darkness to light" and from the power of Satan to God [[Acts 26:18]]. It is presented as a "marvellous light" that calls people out of darkness [[1 Peter 2:9]].
* **Embodiment of the Divine:** The light, `{{G5457}}` **phōs**, is theologically significant, as God is called the "Father of lights" [[James 1:17]] and Jesus identifies himself as "the light of the world" [[John 8:12]]. The light that shines round about is therefore a manifestation of God's own presence and power.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4015}}` is a precise and potent verb reserved for a moment of profound divine encounter. It does not simply mean "to shine," but "to flash all around," emphasizing an enveloping and inescapable experience. Its biblical usage, always connected with `{{G5457}}` **light** from `{{G3772}}` **heaven**, locks its meaning into the context of a life-altering, divine revelation that transforms an individual's path.
TRV