Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential for delving deeper into Biblical texts and their original meanings. The word ἐπικάλυμμα (epikálymma), Strong’s G1942, is particularly significant as it means “covering” or “veil.” This term is relevant in New Testament interpretation, especially in discussions concerning religious and cultural practices related to coverings or veils. In ancient Greek culture, coverings were used for various purposes, including modesty, ceremonial practices, and as metaphors for concealment or protection.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἐπικάλυμμα (epikálymma) [eh-pee-KAH-lee-mah]
• Etymology root words and their meanings: From ἐπί (epi, “upon”) and καλύπτω (kalýptō, “to cover”), meaning “a covering” or “something placed over.”
• Part of Speech: Noun, neuter. This word follows the third declension pattern in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Covering or veil.
• A layer placed over something for protection, concealment, or modesty.
• In a figurative sense, something that hides or conceals.

Similar Words: Related Greek words include καλύπτω (kalýptō) [ka-LIP-to], meaning “to cover” or “to hide,” and κατακάλυμμα (katakálymma) [ka-ta-KAH-lee-ma], meaning “a covering” or “a veil.” While καλύπτω is a verb that denotes the action “to cover” or “to conceal,” ἐπικάλυμμα (epikálymma) is a noun referring specifically to the object used for covering. Κατακάλυμμα, on the other hand, emphasizes a covering that is more permanent or extensive, such as a full veil or curtain, often used in religious or sacred contexts.

Further Insights: The noun ἐπικάλυμμα is derived from the verb καλύπτω (kalýptō), which means “to cover,” combined with the preposition ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon.” This construction creates a word that signifies a covering placed upon something, often for protection or concealment. In Biblical contexts, it can refer to literal coverings, such as veils or cloths, or metaphorical coverings, such as a veil over understanding or perception.
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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Defines ἐπικάλυμμα as “a covering” or “a veil,” often used in contexts where something is concealed or protected. It can refer to both literal coverings, such as clothing or veils, and metaphorical coverings, such as spiritual or intellectual veils.
• Thayers: Notes that ἐπικάλυμμα refers to “a covering,” specifically mentioning its use as a “veil.” It is associated with concealment, whether physical (like a veil over the face) or metaphorical (like a covering over understanding).
• Vines: Highlights that ἐπικάλυμμα implies “a covering” or “a veil,” often in relation to religious practices or symbolic representations of concealment. It is a term used to emphasize the act of covering or protecting something.
• LSJ: In classical Greek literature, ἐπικάλυμμα is noted to mean “a covering” or “a wrapping,” frequently used in various contexts, from clothing to metaphorical uses in literature and philosophy. It can refer to anything that covers or hides an object or idea.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Describes it as “a covering” or “a veil,” emphasizing the sense of something that is placed over or conceals. It is often used in religious and metaphorical contexts to describe coverings that serve symbolic purposes.

Related Scripture References

• Hebrews 9:5: “And above it were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the mercy seat; of these things we cannot now speak in detail.” (While this verse does not contain ἐπικάλυμμα, the concept of a “covering” is discussed in the context of the Ark of the Covenant.)

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπικάλυμμα (G1942)

The Greek word ἐπικάλυμμα (epikálymma) is a noun meaning “covering” or “veil.” It is significant in both Biblical and classical Greek literature, where it describes an object or concept used for concealment, protection, or modesty. In the New Testament, it is used to depict both literal coverings, such as veils, and metaphorical coverings, such as spiritual blindness or concealment of understanding. Its use in classical texts reflects its broader application in discussions about covering, hiding, and protecting, whether in physical, philosophical, or religious contexts.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, coverings such as veils (ἐπικάλυμμα) were not just practical items but also carried significant symbolic meanings. For example, a veil could represent modesty, protection, or sanctity, especially in religious ceremonies. In Greek tragedies, veils and coverings were often used to symbolize hidden truths, deception, or divine protection. This cultural symbolism of coverings is carried through into the New Testament, where the concept of a “veil” is frequently used metaphorically to describe spiritual blindness or hidden truths waiting to be unveiled.