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ἀπαύγασμα (apaugasma)

apaugasma

radiance

G0541 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The noun apaugasma describes the radiance or effulgence that beams directly from a luminous source. It is not merely reflected light, but the very out-raying of brightness itself. In Hebrews 1:3, this word characterizes Christ as the exact representation of God’s being, suggesting that He shines forth the divine glory in the same way light issues from its origin.

Its etymology points to a close connection with the source. The term implies an inseparable relationship between the emitter and the emission, much like how brightness cannot be separated from the sun that produces it. This usage emphasizes Christ’s unique role in revealing God, portraying Him not as a distant reflection but as the direct manifestation of divine majesty.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word apaugasma paints a picture of light that does not merely reflect but originates from its source. When Hebrews describes Jesus as this radiance, it means He is not a distant echo of God’s glory, but the very out-raying of His being. Just as you cannot separate the sun from its brightness, Christ reveals the Father in a way that is direct and inseparable.

This truth offers deep comfort. You do not need to search for God in shadows or guess at His character. In Christ, the divine nature shines clearly. This assurance grounds your faith in who He truly is, providing stability when the world feels uncertain.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • [the] radiance1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • ἀπαύγασμα1×

Key Verses

  • Hebrews 1:3
    His Son is the radiance of his glory, the very image of his substance, and upholding all things by the word of his power, who, when he had by himself purified us of our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high,

    This verse uses apaugasma to define Christ's nature as the direct emission of God's glory, distinguishing Him from created light.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does apaugasma mean in the Bible?

It is a Greek noun meaning radiance or effulgence. It refers to light that beams directly from a source, rather than reflected light.

How is Jesus described as the radiance of God's glory?

In Hebrews 1:3, Jesus is called the apaugasma, showing He shares the same substance as the Father. This highlights His divine nature and role in revealing God.

Why is this word important for understanding Christ?

It emphasizes that Christ is not a created reflection but the very out-raying of God's being. This confirms His equality with the Father and His unique ability to make God known.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Hebrews 1 verse
Hebrews 1:3

His Son is the radiance of his glory, the very image of his substance, and upholding all things by the word of his…