Upu o le Aso

light — Malamalama

Light; and by extension, understanding or clarity.

This word also appears in the devotional on Mataio 5:14, 16.

Malamalama

noun / verb / adjective

[mah-lah-mah-lah-mah] · ma-la-ma-la-ma

English translations: light, brightness, to understand, clear
Samoan synonyms: moli, susulu, iloa

Formal (gagana fa'aaloalo) vs. everyday usage

Formal: Used of Christ as the light of the world, and of scripture giving understanding.

Everyday: 'Ua ou malamalama' simply means 'I understand now'.

Example sentences

O a'u o le malamalama o le lalolagi.
I am the light of the world.
Ua ou malamalama i lau tala.
I understand what you are saying.
Ua malamalama le taeao.
The morning has grown bright.

Verse in context / Fuaiupu

English — World English Bible (WEB)

“You are the light of the world. A city located on a hill can’t be hidden. Even so, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” — Matthew 5:14, 16 (WEB)

Samoan study rendering

“O outou o le malamalama o le lalolagi. E lē mafai ona natia se a'ai o i luga o le mauga. Ia fa'apea ona pupula atu o outou malamalama i luma o tagata.” — Mataio 5:14, 16

More Samoan biblical words

Continue with the Bible book name reference or read our Sources & Methodology.