from περί and λάμπω; to illuminate all around, i.e. invest with a halo:--shine round about.
Transliteration:perilámpō
Pronunciation:per-ee-lam'-po
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb περιλάμπω (perilámpō, `{{G4034}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition περί (perí), meaning "around" or "about," and the verb λάμπω (lámpō, `{{G2989}}`), meaning "to shine" or "to give light." The combination yields a precise meaning: "to shine all around," "to illuminate all around," or "to envelop with light." This is not merely a light shining *on* something, but a light that surrounds and encompasses, suggesting an overwhelming, pervasive, and often sudden illumination. The nuance of "invest with a halo" captures the sense of a glorious, all-encompassing radiance that emanates from or surrounds a source, often implying a divine presence or manifestation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word περιλάμπω (perilámpō, `{{G4034}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the book of Acts, specifically in Paul's recounting of his conversion experience:
* **[[Acts 22:6]]**: "As I was on my way and approaching Damascus, about noon a great light from heaven suddenly περίλαμψε me."
* In this pivotal verse, Paul describes the extraordinary light that confronted him on the road to Damascus. The choice of περιλάμπω (perilámpō) is highly significant. It emphasizes that the light was not merely a bright flash but an overwhelming, enveloping radiance that surrounded him. This comprehensive illumination underscores the divine nature of the encounter, signifying an inescapable and direct confrontation with the risen Christ. The light was so intense and pervasive that it led to his temporary blindness, a physical manifestation of the spiritual blindness that was being overcome by divine revelation. This singular use powerfully conveys the sudden, absolute, and transformative nature of God's intervention in Paul's life.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of περιλάμπω (perilámpō, `{{G4034}}`) is enriched by examining its linguistic and conceptual relatives:
* **λάμπω (lámpō, `{{G2989}}`)**: The root verb, meaning "to shine," "to give light." This forms the core of περιλάμπω.
* **φῶς (phōs, `{{G5457}}`)**: "Light," a fundamental theological concept. God is light ([[1 John 1:5]]), and Christ is the light of the world ([[John 8:12]]). The light that περίλαμψε Paul was a manifestation of this divine light.
* **δόξα (dóxa, `{{G1391}}`)**: "Glory," often associated with radiant light, particularly divine glory. The light on the Damascus road was a manifestation of the glory of the resurrected Christ.
* **ἀστράπτω (astráptō, `{{G797}}`)**: "To flash like lightning," implying sudden, intense light. While distinct, it shares the element of sudden, powerful illumination.
* **ἐπιφάνεια (epipháneia, `{{G2015}}`)**: "Appearance," "manifestation," often referring to a divine manifestation or advent. The event on the Damascus road was a profound epiphany.
* **Concepts**: The event described by περιλάμπω evokes themes of divine revelation, theophany (a visible manifestation of God), overwhelming divine presence, sovereign call, and transformative encounter.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of περιλάμπω (perilámpō, `{{G4034}}`) in [[Acts 22:6]] imbues it with profound theological significance. It describes the unparalleled light that accompanied Christ's direct appearance to Saul, marking the critical moment of his conversion and call to apostleship.
1. **Divine Revelation and Presence**: The "shining all around" signifies an undeniable and inescapable manifestation of God's presence. It was not a subtle impression but an overwhelming sensory experience, leaving no doubt about its divine origin. This light is an attribute of God's glory ([[Exodus 16:10]], [[Matthew 17:2]]), demonstrating His holiness and power.
2. **Sovereign Initiative**: The fact that the light περίλαμψε Paul, rather than him seeking it, underscores God's sovereign initiative in calling him. Paul was confronted by the divine, not merely invited. This illustrates the unmerited grace of God in choosing His instruments.
3. **Transformative Encounter**: The light, while physically blinding, initiated a profound spiritual transformation. It stripped Paul of his former identity and zeal as a persecutor, preparing him to become the Apostle to the Gentiles. The overwhelming nature of the light signifies the radical nature of the change God intended for him.
4. **Christological Emphasis**: Ultimately, the light is a manifestation of the resurrected Christ. It is through this glorious light that Christ reveals Himself to Paul, establishing His authority and commissioning Paul for His service. It highlights the living, active presence of Christ even after His ascension.
### Summary
The Greek verb περιλάμπω (perilámpō, `{{G4034}}`) precisely conveys the meaning "to shine all around" or "to envelop with light." Its singular, yet highly impactful, occurrence in [[Acts 22:6]] describes the overwhelming divine light that surrounded Saul on the road to Damascus, leading to his conversion. This word powerfully emphasizes the sudden, inescapable, and transformative nature of God's direct revelation and sovereign call, manifesting the glorious presence of the resurrected Christ. It serves as a potent reminder of the divine initiative in salvation and the radical power of God's light to illuminate and transform.
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