Topical Encyclopedia The term "Theophany" is derived from the Greek words "theos" (God) and "phaino" (to appear), and it refers to the manifestation of God to humans in a tangible form. Throughout the Bible, Theophanies are significant events where God reveals Himself to individuals or groups, often to convey a message, establish a covenant, or provide guidance.Old Testament Theophanies 1. The Burning Bush (Exodus 3:1-6): One of the most well-known Theophanies occurs when God appears to Moses in the form of a burning bush that is not consumed by the fire. In this encounter, God reveals His name, "I AM WHO I AM," and commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. The Berean Standard Bible states, "When the LORD saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush, 'Moses, Moses!' And Moses said, 'Here I am.'" 2. Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:16-20): God manifests Himself to the Israelites at Mount Sinai with thunder, lightning, a thick cloud, and the sound of a trumpet. This Theophany is accompanied by the giving of the Ten Commandments. The BSB describes the scene: "On the morning of the third day there was thunder and lightning, with a thick cloud over the mountain, and a very loud trumpet blast. Everyone in the camp trembled." 3. The Angel of the LORD: Throughout the Old Testament, the "Angel of the LORD" appears in various Theophanies, often identified as a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. Notable instances include the appearance to Hagar (Genesis 16:7-13), Abraham (Genesis 22:11-18), and Gideon (Judges 6:11-24). 4. The Cloud and Fire (Exodus 13:21-22): As the Israelites journeyed through the wilderness, God led them by a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. This Theophany provided guidance and protection, as noted in the BSB: "By day the LORD went ahead of them in a pillar of cloud to guide them on their way and by night in a pillar of fire to give them light." New Testament Theophanies 1. The Baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:16-17): At the baptism of Jesus, the heavens open, and the Spirit of God descends like a dove, while a voice from heaven declares, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" . This event marks a significant Theophany, revealing the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 2. The Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8): Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John, with His face shining like the sun and His clothes becoming white as light. Moses and Elijah appear, and a voice from a bright cloud says, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" . 3. The Appearance to Saul (Acts 9:3-6): On the road to Damascus, Saul (later Paul) encounters a blinding light and hears the voice of Jesus, leading to his conversion. The BSB recounts, "As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?'" Significance of Theophanies Theophanies serve as pivotal moments in biblical history, demonstrating God's desire to communicate with His people and intervene in human affairs. They often accompany significant revelations, covenants, and divine instructions, underscoring God's holiness, power, and presence. Through these manifestations, God establishes His authority and relationship with humanity, guiding and shaping the course of salvation history. |