### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **apaúgasma**, represented by `{{G541}}`, means **brightness**. It is used just **1 time** in the Bible, and its definition as an "off-flash, i.e. effulgence" points to a radiance that shines forth from a source. This term carries significant weight in describing the nature of Christ.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G541}}` appears in [[Hebrews 1:3]], which describes the Son as "the **brightness** of his glory, and the express image of his person." In this pivotal verse, the word is used to articulate the relationship between the Son and the Father. The Son is not merely reflecting glory but is the very radiance of that glory, just as light emanates from the sun. The passage continues by stating that this same Son upholds all things, purged our sins, and sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in [[Hebrews 1:3]] illuminate the meaning of `{{G541}}`:
* `{{G1391}}` **dóxa** (glory): This is what `{{G541}}` radiates from. It is defined as "glory (as very apparent), in a wide application." The Son is the brightness of this very apparent glory [[Hebrews 1:3]].
* `{{G5481}}` **charaktḗr** (express image): Used in parallel with **brightness**, this word means "an exact copy or (figuratively) representation," emphasizing that the Son is a perfect representation of the Father's nature [[Hebrews 1:3]].
* `{{G5287}}` **hypóstasis** (person, substance): The Son is the express image of the Father's "essence" or "substance." This highlights the shared nature between them [[Hebrews 1:3]].
* `{{G5342}}` **phérō** (upholding): The one who is the brightness of glory is also described as "upholding all things," connecting his divine nature to his sustaining power over creation [[Hebrews 1:3]].
* `{{G3172}}` **megalōsýnē** (majesty): After purging sins, the Son sat at the right hand of "divinity" or "majesty," signifying his exalted position of honor and authority [[Hebrews 1:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G541}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful usage:
* **Divine Essence:** By describing the Son as the **brightness** of glory, the text asserts His divine nature. He is not a creation separate from God's glory but is the eternal effulgence of it [[Hebrews 1:3]].
* **Perfect Revelation:** Paired with "express image" `{{G5481}}`, the term shows that the Son is the perfect and visible manifestation of the invisible God. He reveals the Father's very being and glory to creation.
* **Sustaining Authority:** The one who is this **brightness** is also the one who upholds `{{G5342}}` all things `{{G3956}}` by the word `{{G4487}}` of his power `{{G1411}}`. His nature is inseparable from His authority over the universe [[Hebrews 1:3]].
* **Completed Work:** The passage links His identity as the **brightness** of glory to his redemptive work, noting that He "purged our sins" `{{G266}}` before sitting down in the place of highest honor [[Hebrews 1:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G541}}` is a critical Christological term. Though used only once, **apaúgasma** defines the Son as the very radiance of God's glory, an exact representation of His substance, and the powerful sustainer of all things. It communicates that Jesus is not merely like God, but that He is the very "off-flash" of God's own being, making the Father's glory known and visible.
TRV