φέγγος

brightness, light

Definition

The Greek word φέγγος (pheggos) primarily means 'light' or 'brightness,' specifically referring to a shining, emitted radiance, often from a celestial body. In its three New Testament occurrences, it consistently describes a powerful, visible light source. In Matthew 24:29 and Mark 13:24, it refers to the light of the heavenly bodies (the sun, moon, and stars) that will be darkened during the eschatological tribulation. In Luke 11:33, it describes the bright light of a lamp that is placed on a stand to illuminate a room, serving as a metaphor for spiritual revelation.

Biblical Usage

φέγγος is used only three times in the New Testament, in the Synoptic Gospels. In two instances (Matthew 24:29, Mark 13:24), it is used in an apocalyptic context to describe the failing light of the celestial bodies as a sign of the end times. In the third instance (Luke 11:33), it is used in a parabolic teaching of Jesus, comparing the light of a lamp to the revealed truth of the gospel. The word is always used for a tangible, physical source of illumination.

Etymology

Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *bʰeh₂- ('to shine'), which is also the root for the Greek verb φαίνω (phainō, 'to shine, appear'). It is a primary noun for 'light' or 'radiance' in Greek, distinct from other words for light like φῶς (phōs), which can have a more abstract or metaphysical sense.

Semantic Range

φέγγος contributes to key biblical themes of revelation and judgment. In Luke 11:33, it illustrates the principle that divine truth, once received, is meant to be openly displayed for all to see, not hidden. In the apocalyptic passages (Matthew 24:29, Mark 13:24), the extinguishing of this celestial light signifies the cosmic upheaval and divine judgment preceding the coming of the Son of Man. Understanding this specific word for 'light' helps distinguish the physical, created light of the cosmos from the spiritual light of God's truth and presence.

In the ancient world, without artificial lighting, light from the sun, moon, stars, and lamps was fundamentally tied to safety, work, and timekeeping. The darkening of celestial light in prophecy would symbolize a complete collapse of the natural order and a profound sense of terror and disorientation, a concept more visceral than in our modern, electrically illuminated world.

φῶς (phōs, G5457) — The most common word for 'light,' often used for both physical light and spiritual/metaphorical light (e.g., God as light, believers as light). φέγγος is more narrowly focused on emitted radiance, especially from a luminous body.

Word Details

Scripture References