Brief Overview of σκῆνος (Strong’s G4636: skēnos)

Strong’s G4636: A neuter noun metaphorically referring to the human body as a temporary dwelling or tent for the soul. Used by Paul to contrast our earthly body with our eternal, heavenly dwelling, emphasizing the temporary nature of our physical existence.

U- Unveiling the Word

Σκῆνος represents a powerful metaphor for the human body as a temporary dwelling place of the soul. In Paul’s writings, it appears in discussions of the believer’s future hope, contrasting our current physical existence with our eternal heavenly body. Early church fathers extensively used this metaphor to teach about the relationship between body and soul, the temporary nature of earthly life, and the hope of resurrection. Today, it continues to inform Christian understanding of embodiment, mortality, and eternal life.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: σκῆνος, skēnos, SKAY-nos
• Detailed Pronunciation: σκῆ (skay) νος (nos) – stress on first syllable
• Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter

Etymology:

• Related to σκηνή (tent, tabernacle)
• From Indo-European root *skei- (to cut, split)
• Used metaphorically for temporary dwelling

D – Defining Meanings

• Tent or temporary dwelling
• Physical body (metaphorically)
• Earthly habitation

Translation Options:

• Tent – emphasizing temporary nature
• Earthly dwelling – highlighting current existence
• Physical frame – focusing on bodily aspect

E – Exploring Similar Words

• σῶμα (sōma, SO-ma) – See G4983: Body in general
• σκήνωμα (skēnōma, skay-NO-ma) – See G4638: Similar metaphorical use
• οἰκία (oikia, oy-KEE-ah) – See G3614: House, dwelling

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

• Case: Nominative, Accusative, Genitive, Dative
• Number: Singular and Plural
• Gender: Neuter
• Declension: Third declension

Examples:
Nominative/Accusative singular: σκῆνος
Genitive singular: σκήνους
Dative singular: σκήνει

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its metaphorical use for the body. Thayer’s notes its connection to temporary dwelling concepts. LSJ documents broader usage in classical Greek. Vine’s highlights its theological significance in Paul’s writings. Moulton and Milligan cite examples from philosophical texts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
2 Corinthians 5:1: “For we know that if our earthly [tent] [σκῆνος] is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.”

Additional References:
2 Corinthians 5:4

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Σκῆνος powerfully illustrates the temporary nature of our earthly existence while pointing to our eternal hope in Christ. This promotes the good news by reminding us that while our current bodies are temporary, King Jesus promises us eternal, glorified bodies in His presence.

D – Did You Know?

• Used extensively in ancient philosophical discussions about body and soul
• Appears only in 2 Corinthians in the New Testament
• Influenced Christian theology of embodiment and resurrection

Strong’s G4636: A neuter noun metaphorically referring to the human body as a temporary dwelling or tent for the soul. Used by Paul to contrast our earthly body with our eternal, heavenly dwelling, emphasizing the temporary nature of our physical existence.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: body, tent, temporary-dwelling, resurrection, mortality, eternal-life, paul, metaphor, earthly-life, heavenly-body, soul, embodiment​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​