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H3313 · Hebrew · Old Testament
יָפַע
Yapha
Verb
To Shine, Shine Forth

Definition

The Hebrew verb yapha means to shine, shine forth, or be resplendent. It occurs 8 times in the Old Testament and is used exclusively of God's glorious self-revelation — His radiant appearing in power and splendor. It describes the visible manifestation of God's glory breaking forth like light.

Usage & Theological Significance

Yapha is a theophanic word — it appears in contexts where God manifests His presence in visible glory. In Deuteronomy 33:2, God "shone forth" from Mount Paran; in Psalm 50:2, from Zion God "shines forth" in perfect beauty; in Psalm 80:1, the psalmist pleads for God to "shine forth" in deliverance. The word captures the awe-inspiring, overwhelming brilliance of God's appearing and carries the prayer of the faithful that God would reveal His glory once again.

Key Bible Verses

Psalm 50:2 From Zion, perfect in beauty, God shines forth.
Deuteronomy 33:2 The LORD came from Sinai and dawned over them from Seir; he shone forth from Mount Paran.
Psalm 80:1 You who sit enthroned between the cherubim, shine forth.
Psalm 94:1 The LORD is a God who avenges. O God who avenges, shine forth.
Job 10:3 Does it please you to oppress me, while you smile on the plans of the wicked?

Related Words

External Resources

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