prolongation for the base of φῶς; to lighten (shine), i.e. show (transitive or intransitive, literal or figurative):-- appear, seem, be seen, shine, X think.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phaínō**, represented by `{{G5316}}`, serves as a foundational term for the action of shining or appearing. It is a prolongation for the base of φῶς and means to lighten, show, appear, seem, or be seen. It appears **32 times** across **31 unique verses** in the Bible, signifying its role in describing both literal light and figurative manifestation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G5316}}` is used to describe a range of events and intentions. It is used literally when John states that "the light **shineth** in darkness" [[John 1:5]] and when describing a countenance that **shineth** as the sun [[Revelation 1:16]]. Figuratively, it is used to expose wrongful motives, such as the hypocrites who pray in public that they may **be seen** of men [[Matthew 6:5]] or disfigure their faces so they **appear** to fast [[Matthew 6:16]]. The term also denotes supernatural events, as when an angel of the Lord **appeared** to Joseph in a dream [[Matthew 1:20]] or when Jesus **appeared** to Mary Magdalene after the resurrection [[Mark 16:9]]. It can also mean to seem, as when the report of the resurrection **seemed** to the apostles as idle tales [[Luke 24:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the Greek text expand on the concept of light and appearance:
* `{{G5457}}` **phōs** (light): As the base word for `phaínō`, it means luminousness. The relationship is that of a noun to its verb, as seen in the phrase "the **light** (phōs) **shineth** (phaínō)" [[John 1:5]].
* `{{G5458}}` **phōstḗr** (an illuminator): This term describes the object that shines. Believers are called to **shine** (phaínō) as **lights** (phōstḗr) in the world [[Philippians 2:15]].
* `{{G5318}}` **phanerós** (manifest, open): This word describes the result of something shining, which is to become apparent or known. It is used in contrast to things done in secret, with the promise that one's Father will reward them **openly** [[Matthew 6:18]].
* `{{G5461}}` **phōtízō** (to shed rays, i.e. to shine): This verb is a close synonym. The new city has no need of the sun to **shine** (phaínō) in it, because the glory of God did **lighten** (phōtízō) it [[Revelation 21:23]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5316}}` is significant, touching on themes of revelation, witness, and discernment.
* **Divine Manifestation:** The word is used to describe God's actions of revealing truth and His presence. This is seen in the true **light** that **shineth** in darkness [[1 John 2:8]], the **appearance** of angels with divine messages [[Matthew 1:20]], and the post-resurrection **appearance** of Christ himself [[Mark 16:9]].
* **The Nature of Christian Witness:** Believers are instructed to **shine** as lights in the world [[Philippians 2:15]]. This is contrasted with the hypocritical desire to **appear** righteous to men [[Matthew 23:28]], emphasizing that a true witness is a reflection of an inner reality, not an outward performance.
* **Appearance Versus Reality:** `{{G5316}}` often creates a distinction between how things **appear** and what they truly are. The Pharisees **appear** beautiful outwardly but are corrupt within [[Matthew 23:27]]. Even sin itself can **appear** as sin through a good commandment, highlighting its deceitful nature [[Romans 7:13]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5316}}` is a dynamic word that moves from the literal to the metaphorical. It describes the simple act of a candle that **shall shine** [[Revelation 18:23]] as well as the glorious sign of the Son of man that **shall appear** in heaven [[Matthew 24:30]]. By encompassing the meanings of shining, appearing, and seeming, `phaínō` becomes a crucial term for understanding biblical concepts of divine revelation, the believer's role as a light, and the need for discernment between outward appearance and spiritual truth.
TRV