λυχνία
luchnia
lampstand
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word λυχνία (luchnia) refers to a lampstand, a device that holds a light source. It is used in the context of light and darkness, often symbolizing guidance, wisdom, and revelation. The occurrences of this word in the New Testament reveal its significance in various scenes. The most notable instance is in the vision of the heavenly temple in Revelation, where seven golden lampstands support the figure of Christ, the ultimate source of light (Revelation 1:12-20). In this context, the lampstands represent the seven churches to which Jesus is sending a message of encouragement and correction. The image suggests stability and guidance in the midst of chaos and darkness. The common thread in the usage of λυχνία is its association with enlightenment and illumination. Whether in physical settings or as a metaphor for spiritual guidance, the lampstand remains a symbol of light piercing through darkness.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
12 total occurrences across the text
Neither do you light a lamp, and put it under a measuring basket, but on a stand; and it shines to all who are in the house.
Mark 4:21He said to them, “Is the lamp brought to be put under a basket or under a bed? Isn’t it put on a stand?
Luke 8:16“No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a container, or puts it under a bed; but puts it on a stand, that those who enter in may see the light.
Luke 11:33“No one, when he has lit a lamp, puts it in a cellar or under a basket, but on a stand, that those who come in may see the light.
Hebrews 9:2For a tabernacle was prepared. In the first part were the lamp stand, the table, and the show bread; which is called the Holy Place.
Revelation 1:20The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lamp stands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven assemblies. The seven lamp stands are seven assemblies.
Revelation 1:20The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in my right hand, and the seven golden lamp stands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven assemblies. The seven lamp stands are seven assemblies.
Revelation 1:12I turned to see the voice that spoke with me. Having turned, I saw seven golden lamp stands.
Revelation 1:13And among the lamp stands was one like a son of man, clothed with a robe reaching down to his feet, and with a golden sash around his chest.
Revelation 2:1“To the angel of the assembly in Ephesus write: “He who holds the seven stars in his right hand, he who walks among the seven golden lamp stands says these things:
Revelation 2:5Remember therefore from where you have fallen, and repent and do the first works; or else I am coming to you swiftly, and will move your lamp stand out of its place, unless you repent.
Revelation 11:4These are the two olive trees and the two lamp stands, standing before the Lord of the earth.