The Greek word astráptō, represented by G797, means to flash as lightning:--lighten, shine. It is likely derived from ἀστήρ (astēr). It appears 2 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, consistently describing a sudden, brilliant, or dazzling flash of light associated with divine or celestial events.
In its biblical uses, G797 conveys a sense of supernatural brilliance. In Luke's Gospel, it is used to describe the second coming of the Son of Man, which will be as unmistakable as lightning that lighteneth and shineth from one part of heaven to the other Luke 17:24. The word is also used to describe the appearance of the two men at the empty tomb, whose garments were described as shining Luke 24:4, indicating their heavenly origin and the glory of the resurrection event.
Several related Greek words help to clarify the concept of brilliant light:
- G796 astrapḗ (lightning; by analogy, glare:--lightning, bright shining): This is the noun form from which G797 is derived. It is used to refer to literal lightning, such as when Jesus beheld Satan fall like lightning from heaven Luke 10:18, or the lightnings that proceed from God's throne in Revelation Revelation 4:5.
- G2989 lámpō (a primary verb; to beam, i.e. radiate brilliancy (literally or figuratively):--give light, shine): This verb is used alongside G797 to describe the coming of the Son of Man Luke 17:24. It also describes the shining face of Jesus during the transfiguration Matthew 17:2 and God commanding light to shine out of darkness 2 Corinthians 4:6.
The theological weight of G797 lies in its connection to divine revelation and glory.
- Glory of Heavenly Beings: The term is used to describe the appearance of angels, whose shining garments signify their origin in God's glorious presence Luke 24:4. This brilliant appearance marks them as messengers from another realm.
- The Second Coming: The comparison of the Son of Man's return to a lightning flash that lighteneth G797 emphasizes the sudden, universally visible, and powerful nature of His appearance Luke 17:24. It will not be a secret event but a glorious and undeniable manifestation.
In summary, G797 is a specific and potent verb used to depict a sudden flash of heavenly light. Though rare, its occurrences are significant, illustrating the visual glory of angelic beings and the instantaneous, unmistakable nature of Christ's future return. It captures a moment where the brilliance of the divine realm breaks into the visible world.
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