The Greek word perilámpō, represented by G4034, means to illuminate all around or to shine round about. Formed from the words περί and λάμπω, it describes a light that envelops its subject. It appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses, making it a rare but specific term for a powerful manifestation of light.
The two uses of G4034 occur in pivotal moments of divine revelation. In one account, an angel of the Lord appeared, and "the glory of the Lord shone round about them," causing great fear Luke 2:9. In the other, Paul recounts seeing a "light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about" him and his companions on their journey Acts 26:13. In both instances, the word describes a supernatural, surrounding light that signifies a heavenly presence.
Several related words help clarify the nature of this divine illumination:
- G1391 dóxa (glory): This term is directly associated with G4034 when the glory of the Lord shines Luke 2:9. It is used throughout scripture to signify God's manifest presence, honor, and majesty.
- G2987 lamprótēs (brightness): This word emphasizes the sheer intensity of the light, which was "above the brightness of the sun" Acts 26:13.
- G5457 phōs (light): This is the substance of the phenomenon itself, described as "a light from heaven" Acts 26:13. The term 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 theological weight of G4034 is found in its specific application to divine encounters.
- Sign of Divine Presence: The act of "shining round about" serves as an unmistakable marker of a communication from God, whether through an angel Luke 2:9 or from Christ himself Acts 26:13.
- Overwhelming Glory: This is not a gentle glow but an all-encompassing radiance. It is described as the Lord's "glory" G1391 and a heavenly "light" G5457 so intense it surpasses the sun's "brightness" G2987.
- A Call to See: The event described in Acts is explicitly for the purpose of turning people "from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God" Acts 26:18, showing the revelatory purpose of this divine illumination.
In summary, G4034 is a precise verb used for rare but critical moments of heavenly manifestation. Though used only twice, it powerfully conveys the concept of being completely enveloped by a divine light. It connects the physical event of "shining round about" with the profound realities of God's glory G1391 and the revelatory power of His light G5457.
TRV