### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **lappîyd**, represented by `{{H3940}}`, is defined as a flambeau, lamp or flame, and is also translated as a (fire-) brand, (burning) lamp, lightning, or torch. It appears 14 times across 13 unique verses in the Bible. The word consistently refers to a concentrated, often mobile, source of light or fire, used for illumination, as an instrument of war, and as a manifestation of divine power.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H3940}}` appears in several distinct contexts. It is used to describe a direct manifestation of God's presence, as when a "burning **lamp**" passed between the pieces of the sacrifice to seal God's covenant with Abram [[Genesis 15:17]]. It also appears as an element of divine awe, with the people at Sinai witnessing "**lightnings**" `{{H3940}}` from the mountain [[Exodus 20:18]]. In warfare, it is used as a weapon, both in Samson's use of "**firebrands**" to destroy Philistine crops [[Judges 15:4]] and in Gideon's strategic use of **lamps** hidden in pitchers [[Judges 7:16]]. The word is also used in prophetic visions, such as the description of a celestial being whose eyes were like "**lamps** of fire" [[Daniel 10:6]] and chariots that "shall seem like **torches**" [[Nahum 2:4]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the function and nature of `{{H3940}}`:
* `{{H784}}` **ʼêsh** (fire): A primitive word for **fire**, it is frequently used to describe the substance of a **lappîyd**. This is seen in phrases like "**lamps** of **fire**" [[Daniel 10:6]], a "**torch** of **fire**" [[Zechariah 12:6]], and in Ezekiel's vision where "out of the **fire** went forth lightning" [[Ezekiel 1:13]].
* `{{H1197}}` **bâʻar** (to kindle, i.e. consume): This verb describes the action of a **lappîyd**. In Isaiah's prophecy, salvation is compared to a "**lamp** that burneth" `{{H1197}}` [[Isaiah 62:1]]. In the account of Samson, he "set the **brands** on fire" `{{H1197}}` before releasing them [[Judges 15:5]].
* `{{H1300}}` **bârâq** (lightning; by analogy, a gleam): This word is closely associated with **lappîyd**. The chariots in Nahum's vision seem like torches `{{H3940}}` and run like the "**lightnings**" `{{H1300}}` [[Nahum 2:4]]. Similarly, a divine being's face has the appearance of **lightning** `{{H1300}}` while his eyes are like lamps `{{H3940}}` of fire [[Daniel 10:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3940}}` is significant, often pointing to divine power and action.
* **Divine Presence and Covenant:** The "burning **lamp**" `{{H3940}}` in [[Genesis 15:17]] represents the active presence of God in establishing His unbreakable covenant. The "**lightnings**" at Sinai represent His terrifying and glorious presence among His people [[Exodus 20:18]].
* **Instrument of Judgment:** The word is used to show how God can work through human agents or natural forces. Samson's "**firebrands**" and Gideon's "**lamps**" are not mere tools but instruments used to execute divine will against an enemy ([[Judges 15:4]], [[Judges 7:20]]). In prophecy, the governors of Judah will become "a **torch** of fire" to consume those around them [[Zechariah 12:6]].
* **Symbol of Salvation:** In a powerfully positive sense, the righteousness and salvation of **Zion** `{{H6726}}` are promised to go forth "as a **lamp** that burneth," signifying a brilliant and visible deliverance for all to see [[Isaiah 62:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H3940}}` is a dynamic word that represents a focused and potent form of fire or light. Whether as a **lamp**, **torch**, **firebrand**, or **lightning**, it serves as a powerful symbol in scripture. It illustrates divine presence in covenant, acts as an instrument of judgment and warfare, and stands as a metaphor for the undeniable brightness of God's coming salvation.
TRV