χιών
chiōn
snow
Lexicon Entry
Lexicon data from STEPBible TIPNR, Tyndale House, Cambridge. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
What Original Readers Understood
ExploredThe Greek word χιών (chiōn), with Strong's number G5510, has a simple yet evocative definition: it refers to "snow." As part of the broader semantic domain of Water & Weather, χιών is used to describe natural phenomena associated with winter, likely evoking images of cold, wintry scenes. Chiōn appears only three times in the Bible, which may suggest its relatively limited scope or significance within the broader narrative. However, its three occurrences likely convey important details about the world described in these passages. In each instance, χιών functions as a literal descriptor, providing a sensory detail that grounds the narrative in the reality of everyday experience. For those familiar with snowy climates, the mention of χιών may serve to create a vivid atmosphere and immerse the reader in the scene described. For those without similar experiences, the word provides a tangible anchor, allowing them to better understand and imagine the events unfolding. Chiōn's significance, therefore, lies in its ability to create a sense of place and immediacy, inviting readers to engage with the narrative on a deeper level.
Source data & methodology
Occurrences in Scripture
3 total occurrences across the text
His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow.
Mark 9:3His clothing became glistening, exceedingly white, like snow, such as no launderer on earth can whiten them.
Revelation 1:14His head and his hair were white as white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire.