Introduction

In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words is essential to fully grasp the deeper meanings of scripture. One such word is καταπέτασμα (katapetasma), which holds significant theological weight in the New Testament. This noun, often translated as “veil” or “curtain,” is particularly relevant in discussions about the Jewish Temple and the spiritual separation between God and humanity. By studying the usage and context of καταπέτασμα, we gain insights into its symbolic and cultural significance in both early Christianity and ancient Greek society.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: καταπέτασμα (katapetasma) [ka-ta-PEH-ta-sma]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb καταπετάννυμι (katapetanō), meaning “to spread out” or “to cover,” with the prefix κατά (kata) meaning “down” or “against,” and πετάννυμι (petannymi), meaning “to spread” or “to unfold.”
• Part of Speech: Noun, Neuter. It belongs to the third declension in Greek grammar.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• A veil or curtain, specifically referring to the veil in the Jewish Temple that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place.
• A barrier or partition that serves as a dividing element, often symbolizing separation between God and humanity.
• Used metaphorically to denote something that conceals or hides.

Similar Words

• παραπέτασμα (parapetasma) [pa-ra-PEH-ta-sma]: Refers to a covering or a screen. While similar in function to καταπέτασμα, it is generally used in broader contexts beyond the sacred veil.
• κάλυμμα (kalymma) [KA-lym-ma]: Means “covering” or “veil” but does not specifically refer to the temple veil. It can be used for various types of coverings.
• πρόσθεσις (prosthesis) [PROS-the-sis]: Refers to something set before or in front of, like a table covering. It does not carry the same symbolic significance as καταπέτασμα.

Morphological Features

• Case, Number, Gender: καταπέτασμα is a neuter noun of the third declension. It can appear in singular and plural forms, depending on its context within a sentence.
• Declension: The declension pattern for καταπέτασμα follows the third declension. Below is a declension table:

Understanding these forms helps in recognizing the word in different grammatical contexts, particularly in biblical passages that discuss the Temple veil or spiritual separation.

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

καταπέτασμα (katapetasma) is primarily used in the New Testament to refer to the veil in the Jewish Temple, which separated the Holy of Holies from the rest of the Temple. This veil is mentioned in significant passages such as Matthew 27:51, Mark 15:38, and Hebrews 6:19. Theologically, the tearing of the veil at the moment of Jesus’ death symbolizes the removal of the barrier between God and humanity, granting believers direct access to God’s presence. This understanding is reinforced in Hebrews 10:20, which speaks of a “new and living way” opened through Jesus’ flesh, metaphorically represented by the torn veil.

In classical Greek literature, καταπέτασμα is used more generally to describe any heavy curtain or drapery that separates spaces or covers an area. In both Jewish and Greek contexts, it implies a form of separation, whether physical, spiritual, or metaphorical. The theological implications in the New Testament build upon this idea, presenting the καταπέτασμα as a powerful symbol of both division and divine reconciliation.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 27:51: “And behold, the veil (καταπέτασμα) of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth shook and the rocks were split.”
• Mark 15:38: “And the veil (καταπέτασμα) of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.”
• Hebrews 6:19: “This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil (καταπετάσματος).”
• Hebrews 9:3: “Behind the second veil (καταπέτασμα) there was a tabernacle which is called the Holy of Holies.”
• Hebrews 10:20: “By a new and living way which He inaugurated for us through the veil (καταπετάσματος), that is, His flesh.”

Classical Usage

Summary of καταπέτασμα (G2665)

The Greek word καταπέτασμα (katapetasma) is a critical term in understanding New Testament theology, particularly regarding the Jewish Temple and the concept of divine access. It refers to the veil that separated the Holy of Holies, symbolizing the division between God and humanity. The tearing of the καταπέτασμα at Jesus’ death marks the removal of this separation, offering believers direct access to God’s presence. In classical Greek literature, the term also denotes various forms of coverings or partitions, reinforcing its use as a symbol of separation and revelation.

Did You Know?

1. The καταπέτασμα in the Jewish Temple was said to be as thick as a man’s hand and woven in one piece, making its tearing at the time of Jesus’ death a powerful miracle.
2. The veil’s tearing is viewed as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, signifying the end of the Old Covenant and the establishment of the New Covenant in Christ.
3. In early Christian symbolism, the tearing of the καταπέτασμα is often interpreted as Christ’s sacrifice breaking down the barriers between God and humanity, allowing for direct communion with the divine.