← Back to Lexicon
G1823 · Greek · New Testament
ἐξαστράπτω
exastrapto
Verb
to flash like lightning; to gleam brilliantly

Definition

Exastrapto combines ex (out) and astrapto (to flash/lighten). It appears once in the New Testament — Luke 9:29 — to describe Jesus's garments at the Transfiguration: 'and his clothing became dazzling white' (exastrapton). The word evokes lightning — not just white, but actively, brilliantly radiating light. This is no ordinary bleaching; it is the unveiled glory of the divine nature breaking through the incarnate flesh.

Usage & Theological Significance

The exastrapton clothing of the Transfiguration is a preview of the glorified Christ of Revelation 1:16 — 'his face was like the sun shining in full strength.' The incarnation veiled the glory; the Transfiguration unveiled it briefly for three witnesses. The theology is significant: Jesus's divine glory was not added from outside but radiated from within. The human body of the Son of God was always the vessel of infinite light. At the resurrection, that glory becomes permanent, and believers are promised a share in it (Philippians 3:21).

Key Verses

Luke 9:29 And as he was praying, the appearance of his face was altered, and his clothing became dazzling white [exastrapton].
Revelation 1:16 In his right hand he held seven stars, from his mouth came a sharp two-edged sword, and his face was like the sun shining in full strength.
Matthew 17:2 And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light.
Daniel 10:6 His body was like beryl, his face like the appearance of lightning.
Philippians 3:21 Who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.

Related Words

External Resources

🌙
☀️