Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it provides insight into the original meanings and contexts of the Scriptures. The Greek word κατασκήνωσις (kataskēnōsis) is particularly significant because it conveys the idea of “dwelling” or “encampment.” This noun is closely related to the verb κατασκηνόω (kataskēnoō), which means “to dwell” or “to encamp.” In the New Testament, as well as in ancient Greek culture, the concept of κατασκήνωσις often evokes themes of divine presence, human settlement, and the creation of a place for rest or habitation.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: κατασκήνωσις (kataskēnōsis) [ka-ta-skee-NOH-sis]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb κατασκηνόω (kataskēnoō), which means “to dwell” or “to encamp,” combined with the suffix -σις (-sis), which indicates an action or process. Thus, κατασκήνωσις literally means “the act of dwelling” or “encampment.”
• Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine. It refers to the act of dwelling or setting up a temporary or semi-permanent camp.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• An encampment or the act of dwelling.
• A place of habitation, often temporary or provisional in nature.
• A spiritual or divine dwelling, symbolizing God’s presence.

Similar Words

• κατοικία (katoikia) [ka-toi-KEE-ah]: Means “dwelling” or “habitation,” often used in the context of a permanent home or abode, unlike κατασκήνωσις, which suggests a more temporary or provisional dwelling.
• σκήνωσις (skēnōsis) [ske-NOH-sis]: Closely related in meaning, referring to “dwelling” or “tabernacling,” often used in religious or spiritual contexts.
• παροικία (paroikia) [pa-roi-KEE-ah]: Refers to “sojourning” or “temporary residence,” similar to κατασκήνωσις but often emphasizes the foreignness of the sojourner.

Morphological Features

• Case, Number, Gender: κατασκήνωσις is a feminine noun. It can appear in different cases depending on its function in the sentence (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative).
• Declension: It belongs to the third declension in Greek grammar. Below is the declension table for κατασκήνωσις:

Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

The Greek noun κατασκήνωσις (kataskēnōsis) is used to describe a dwelling, camp, or encampment, usually emphasizing a temporary or provisional setting. In the New Testament, it is primarily associated with the notion of God’s dwelling place among His people, symbolizing His presence and protection. In the Septuagint, the term often appears in the context of the Israelites’ wilderness wanderings, where they set up temporary camps as they journeyed through the desert. The word also has a more spiritual connotation, referring to the tabernacle or dwelling of God, making it a powerful image of divine fellowship and sanctuary.

In classical Greek literature, κατασκήνωσις is used to describe temporary camps, military encampments, and provisional settlements, conveying the idea of a place established for rest, refuge, or strategic advantage. This aligns with its Biblical usage, where it often signifies not just a physical dwelling but also a spiritual and divine habitation.

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

Related Scripture References

• Hebrews 11:9: “By faith he dwelt in the land of promise, as in a foreign country, dwelling (κατασκηνώσεις) in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise.”

Classical Usage

Summary of κατασκήνωσις (G2682)

The Greek word κατασκήνωσις (kataskēnōsis) is vital for understanding Biblical themes of dwelling, encampment, and divine habitation. In the New Testament and Septuagint, it emphasizes not only the physical act of dwelling or camping but also carries deep spiritual significance, often related to God’s presence and protection among His people. In classical Greek literature, it is used to describe temporary camps and settlements, aligning with its Biblical connotations of temporary and strategic dwelling places.

Did You Know?

1. κατασκήνωσις is often used in Biblical literature to symbolize God’s temporary dwelling among His people, especially during times of transition or journeying.
2. The term is closely related to the concept of the Tabernacle in the Old Testament, where God would “camp” with His people, providing guidance and protection.
3. In classical Greek contexts, κατασκήνωσις was commonly used in military settings, highlighting its practical and strategic importance for temporary settlements.