The meaning of “φῶς”
Understanding phōs reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
fire, light. - compare φαίνω, φημί) - luminousness (in the widest application, natural or artificial, abstract or concre...
φῶς
fire, light. - compare φαίνω, φημί) - luminousness (in the widest application, natural or artificial, abstract or concrete, literal or figurative)
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 6:23 | “But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!” Word: φῶς (phōs) | |
| John 5:35 | “He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.” Word: φῶς (phōs) | |
| 2 Corinthians 6:14 | “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?” Word: φῶς (phōs) | |
| 1 Thessalonians 5:5 | “Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.” Word: φῶς (phōs) | |
| 1 Peter 2:9 | “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:” Word: φῶς (phōs) |
Theological Word Study: Light
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Light, illumination
The Hebrew or (אוֹר) means light—God's first creation (Genesis 1:3). Light symbolizes God's presence, truth, and salvation: 'The LORD is my light and my salvation' (Psalm 27:1).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Light
The Greek phos (φῶς) denotes light. Jesus declared 'I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness' (John 8:12). Believers are called 'children of light' (Ephesians 5:8).