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G1039 · Greek · New Testament
βύσσινος
byssinos
Adjective
Made of fine linen (byssus)

Definition

The Greek adjective byssinos (G1039) means "made of fine linen" or "of byssus" — the extraordinarily fine, white Egyptian or Phoenician linen fabric associated with wealth, royalty, and purity. It appears in Revelation in descriptions of heavenly garments.

Usage & Theological Significance

In Revelation, byssinos (fine linen) carries profound theological significance. Revelation 19:8 explicitly interprets the fine linen worn by the Bride of Christ: "Fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints." The purity of the garment is not earned but granted — the righteousness of Christ imputed to His people. This is the justification that clothes every believer in white.

Key Bible Verses

Revelation 19:8 It was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure — for the fine linen is the righteous deeds of the saints.
Revelation 19:14 And the armies of heaven, arrayed in fine linen, white and pure, were following him on white horses.
Revelation 18:16 'Alas, alas, for the great city that was clothed in fine linen, in purple and scarlet, adorned with gold.'
Luke 16:19 There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day.
Isaiah 61:10 He has clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has covered me with the robe of righteousness.

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