### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **astrapḗ**, represented by `{{G796}}`, is defined as **lightning** or, by analogy, a glare or **bright shining**. It appears **9 times** across **9 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is used to describe not only the natural phenomenon but also to symbolize suddenness, divine power, and brilliant, awe-inspiring light.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G796}}` is used in several key contexts. It is a recurring symbol of the power and majesty surrounding God's throne in heaven, where **lightnings**, thunderings, and voices proceed from it ([[Revelation 4:5]], [[Revelation 8:5]]). It is also used as a simile to describe the Second Coming, emphasizing that the return of the Son of Man will be as sudden and universally visible as **lightning** that shines from one part of heaven to the other ([[Matthew 24:27]], [[Luke 17:24]]). The term also describes the brilliant appearance of celestial beings, such as the angel at the tomb whose countenance was like **lightning** [[Matthew 28:3]], and the swiftness of Satan's fall from heaven [[Luke 10:18]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of light, power, and divine phenomena:
* `{{G797}}` **astráptō** (to flash as lightning): This is the verb from which `{{G796}}` is derived and describes the action of lightning. It is used in [[Luke 17:24]], where the **lightning** `{{G796}}` **lighteneth** `{{G797}}` across the sky.
* `{{G1027}}` **brontḗ** (thunder): This word for **thunder** is frequently paired with `{{G796}}` in apocalyptic visions to convey the awesome power of God's presence and judgment ([[Revelation 4:5]], [[Revelation 11:19]]).
* `{{G4578}}` **seismós** (an earthquake): Often appearing alongside **lightnings** and thunderings, this term for **earthquake** signifies moments of divine intervention and great upheaval ([[Revelation 8:5]], [[Revelation 16:18]]).
* `{{G3022}}` **leukós** (white): This word for **white** is connected to the brilliance of `{{G796}}` in the description of the angel, whose face was like lightning and whose raiment was **white** as snow [[Matthew 28:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G796}}` is significant, often pointing to divine action and attributes.
* **Divine Power and Judgment:** In Revelation, **lightnings** that come from the throne of God or accompany angelic actions are a clear indicator of God's immense power and the execution of His judgment on the earth ([[Revelation 4:5]], [[Revelation 16:18]]).
* **Suddenness and Visibility:** The word is used to illustrate that key eschatological events, particularly the return of Christ, will be instantaneous and impossible to miss, just as a flash of **lightning** commands the attention of all who can see the sky [[Luke 17:24]].
* **Supernatural Brilliance:** `{{G796}}` characterizes the glorious and terrifying appearance of divine beings. This is seen in the description of the angel at the resurrection [[Matthew 28:3]] and in a metaphorical sense for a body that is completely "full of light" [[Luke 11:36]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G796}}` moves beyond its literal meaning of **lightning** to become a powerful biblical symbol. It encapsulates concepts of speed, immense power, divine judgment, and glorious manifestation. From the throne room of heaven to the description of the Son of Man's return, **astrapḗ** is used to convey events and appearances that are sudden, brilliant, and of divine origin.
TRV