λαμπρός (lampros)
lampros
shining
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 9 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adjective lampros describes something that shines with bright, brilliant light. In the New Testament, it often refers to physical radiance, such as the clear waters of the river in Revelation 22:1 or the shining star mentioned in the same chapter. The word conveys a sense of clarity and transparency, suggesting an intensity that is easy to see.
It also applies to material splendor, particularly in descriptions of clothing. Luke records Herod dressing Jesus in splendid robes (Luke 23:11), while James uses the term to describe fine linen garments in his warning against favoritism (James 2:2-3). Revelation frequently employs it for the pure, bright linen worn by the saints (Revelation 19:8) and the white-robed multitude before the throne (Revelation 7:14).
The term appears nine times in Scripture, with a strong concentration in Revelation. This usage highlights a contrast between earthly luxury and heavenly purity. While human splendor can be fleeting or used for mockery, the lampros clothing in Revelation symbolizes the righteous acts of God’s people. The word consistently points to visible glory, whether in nature, fashion, or divine appearance.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word lampros describes a light that is clear, brilliant, and impossible to ignore. In Scripture, it often appears in descriptions of clothing or natural phenomena, pointing to a visible glory that stands out against a darker background. Whether it is the bright linen worn by angels or the shining star announced by Jesus, this term highlights something pure and radiant.
For your faith, this word offers a comforting picture of what believers are called to be. In Revelation, the fine linen that shines brightly is explained as the righteous acts of God’s people. This suggests that our daily choices and kindnesses contribute to a spiritual radiance that reflects God’s character. It is not about external perfection, but about a life aligned with His will.
Even when human splendor is used for mockery or pride, as seen in the story of Jesus before Herod, the true meaning of lampros remains focused on divine purity. You can find hope in knowing that your actions, done in faith, have lasting value. They become part of a greater light that endures beyond temporary earthly circumstances.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 9 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- bright4×
- splendid,2×
- splendid things1×
- splendid1×
- clear1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- λαμπρὸν3×
- λαμπρὰν2×
- λαμπρᾷ,1×
- λαμπρᾷ1×
- λαμπρὸς1×
- λαμπρὰ1×
Key Verses
-
Revelation of John 19:8
It was given to her that she would array herself in bright, pure, fine linen, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.
This verse defines the shining linen not as fabric, but as the righteous acts of the saints, linking visible glory to moral conduct.
-
Luke 23:11
Herod with his soldiers humiliated him and mocked him. Dressing him in luxurious clothing, they sent him back to Pilate.
Here the word describes luxurious clothing used for humiliation, showing how earthly splendor can be twisted for cruel purposes.
-
Revelation of John 22:16
I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify these things to you for the assemblies. I am the root and the offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.”
Jesus calls Himself the Bright and Morning Star, using this term to affirm His role as a guiding light for the assemblies.