ἐξαστράπτω (exastraptō)
exastraptō
to flash forth
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb exastraptō describes a sudden, brilliant flash of light, literally meaning to send forth lightning or to gleam with radiance. Its components combine the idea of outward expression with the striking nature of lightning, creating an image of intense, immediate brightness rather than a steady glow.
In the New Testament, this word appears only once in Luke 9:29, during the Transfiguration. It is used to describe Jesus’ clothing becoming dazzling and radiant as he prays on the mountain. This specific usage highlights a supernatural brilliance that mirrors the power associated with lightning, marking the moment as one of divine revelation.
Translators typically render this term as "shone" or "became radiant," capturing the visual impact without needing to use the word "lightning" explicitly in every version. The rarity of the word emphasizes the uniqueness of the event, distinguishing Jesus’ glory from ordinary light sources and underscoring the awe-inspiring nature of the encounter.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word exastraptō captures a sudden, brilliant flash of light, like lightning breaking through the sky. In Luke 9:29, it describes Jesus’ clothing becoming dazzling white as He prays on the mountain. This isn’t a steady glow but a striking revelation of divine glory, meant to awe and awaken those present.
For your faith, this image reminds us that God’s presence can break into our ordinary moments with unexpected brilliance. Just as the disciples witnessed Jesus’ radiant appearance, you too can trust that God reveals His truth and power in ways that transform your perspective. It’s a promise that even in quiet times of prayer, heaven’s light may shine through.
When life feels dim or uncertain, remember this flash of glory. It points to Christ’s true nature—fully divine, fully human—and invites you to rest in the hope that His light will guide and sustain you. May you find comfort in knowing that God’s radiance is always near, ready to illuminate your path.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- became dazzling.1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἐξαστράπτων.1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 9:29
As he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became white and dazzling.
This verse uses exastraptō to describe the sudden, dazzling whiteness of Jesus' clothing during prayer, highlighting a supernatural revelation of His divine glory.