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.
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.
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.
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.
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