νύμφη

a bride, daughter-in-law

Definition

The Greek word νύμφη primarily means 'bride' or 'young wife,' referring to a woman at the time of her marriage or in the early years of marriage. In the Gospels, it is used literally for a bride in John 3:29, where John the Baptist refers to Jesus as the bridegroom and himself as the friend of the bridegroom. It also appears in a relational, familial sense meaning 'daughter-in-law,' as seen in the prophetic statements about family division in Matthew 10:35 and Luke 12:53. In Revelation, the term takes on a profound metaphorical meaning, symbolizing the purified and glorified people of God, the church, presented as the bride of Christ (Revelation 21:2, 9; 22:17).

Biblical Usage

Νύμφη is used seven times in the New Testament across Gospels and Revelation. In the Gospels (Matthew, Luke, John), it is used in literal, human contexts—either for a daughter-in-law within family strife or a bride in a wedding analogy. In Revelation, all four occurrences (Revelation 18:23; 21:2, 9; 22:17) are theological and symbolic, depicting the church as the bride of the Lamb. This marks a clear shift from earthly, familial relationships to a central image of eschatological fulfillment and union with Christ.

Etymology

Derived from the classical Greek νύμφη (nymphē), meaning 'bride,' 'young wife,' or 'nymph.' The root is ancient, connected to the concept of marriage and new life. In the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament), it translates Hebrew words for 'bride' (e.g., כַּלָּה, kallah), carrying forward this marital semantic range into biblical Greek.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant, especially in Revelation, where it becomes a key metaphor for salvation history. The 'bride' imagery depicts the intimate, covenantal union between Christ and his church, culminating in the new creation (Revelation 21:2-3). It enriches the reading of John 3:29 by connecting John the Baptist's testimony to this ultimate marital theme, framing Jesus' mission as that of a bridegroom come for his bride. Understanding this Greek term highlights the Bible's consistent narrative of God seeking a people for himself.

In the ancient Greco-Roman and Jewish world, marriage was a central social and economic institution. A νύμφη represented not just a romantic partner but a woman entering a new family with specific roles and duties. The transition from her father's to her husband's household was a major life event. The metaphorical use in Revelation would resonate powerfully with this cultural understanding of marriage as a binding, joyous, and foundational covenant.

γυνή (gynē, G1135) — a general term for 'woman' or 'wife,' not specifically a bride. νυμφίος (nymphios, G3566) — the masculine counterpart, meaning 'bridegroom' or 'son-in-law.'

Word Details

Scripture References