G3871:

Brief Overview of παρακαλύπτω (Strong’s G3871: parakalyptō)

Unveiling the Word

The Greek verb παρακαλύπτω (parakalyptō) translates to “to cover” or “to conceal.” Its primary meaning revolves around the act of hiding or covering something from view, which can be literal or metaphorical. In Luke 9:45, the term is used in the context of Jesus’ teachings to indicate how his disciples did not understand the message, illustrating a lack of clarity or concealment of meaning. The word is composed of the prefix παρά (para), meaning “beside” or “alongside,” and the root καλύπτω (kalyptō), which means “to cover.” The combination suggests a sense of being beside something that is being covered or hidden, highlighting the relational aspect of the act of concealment.

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Necessary Information

Greek Word: παρακαλύπτω (parakalyptō), pronounced [pah-rah-kah-LIP-toh]

Etymology: The term originates from the prefix παρά (para), indicating proximity, and καλύπτω (kalyptō), which refers to the act of covering or hiding. This etymology emphasizes both the physical and metaphorical dimensions of concealment.

Part of Speech: Verb. παρακαλύπτω is a regular verb that follows standard Greek verb conjugation patterns.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

To cover: The primary meaning of παρακαλύπτω is to physically cover or conceal something, preventing it from being seen or known.

To conceal: This verb also implies hiding information or truth, often in a metaphorical sense, reflecting the lack of understanding or awareness.

To overshadow: Additionally, it can convey the sense of overshadowing or obscuring something, which might relate to feelings of doubt or confusion.

Exploring Similar Words

καλύπτω (kalyptō) [kah-LIP-toh]: This verb also means “to cover.” However, while it can be used interchangeably with παρακαλύπτω, it does not carry the same connotation of relational proximity or concealment of understanding.

ἐκάλυψα (ekalupsā) [eh-KAH-lip-sah]: This term means “I covered” in the past tense, and it indicates the completed action of covering, focusing more on the act itself rather than the relational aspect of covering alongside.

ἀποκαλύπτω (apokalyptō) [ah-poh-kah-LIP-toh]: Meaning “to reveal” or “to uncover,” this term serves as a direct antonym to παρακαλύπτω, focusing on the act of making something known rather than concealing it.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

For Verbs:

Tense, Voice, Mood: παρακαλύπτω is primarily found in the present tense, indicative mood, and active voice.

Person and Number: Examples of conjugation include:

• 1st person singular: παρακαλύπτω (I cover)

• 2nd person singular: παρακαλύπτεις (You cover)

• 3rd person singular: παρακαλύπτει (He/She/It covers)

Aspect: The verb reflects an imperfective aspect, emphasizing the ongoing action of covering or concealing rather than a single, completed act.

Studying Lexicon Insights

Various Greek lexicons provide insights into παρακαλύπτω, emphasizing its contextual significance. BDAG highlights its usage in New Testament narratives, particularly in conveying spiritual truths that are not readily visible to the disciples. Thayer’s elaborates on its implications of concealment and the challenges of understanding divine messages. LSJ discusses its occurrences in classical texts, where it often reflects social dynamics and the importance of clarity in communication. Vine’s connects it to the broader themes of revelation and understanding, illustrating how covering and uncovering are integral to spiritual teachings. Strong’s notes its significance in discussions of knowledge and ignorance, particularly in theological contexts. LEH and Moulton and Milligan provide additional insights into its usage, focusing on the relational dynamics of covering and revealing in social contexts.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

Luke 9:45: “But they did not understand this saying, and it was concealed (παρακαλύπτω) from them, so that they might not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.”

Matthew 13:35: “This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet: ‘I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter what has been hidden (παρακαλύπτω) since the foundation of the world.’”

John 12:40: “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, lest they see with their eyes, and understand with their hearts, and turn, and I would heal them (παρακαλύπτω).”

Analyzing Classical Usage

In classical literature, παρακαλύπτω often reflects themes of concealment and clarity in communication.

Plato, Republic: “The philosopher seeks to uncover the truth, rather than allow it to be concealed (παρακαλύπτω) from the people.”

Aristotle, Metaphysics: “The essence of being often remains hidden (παρακαλύπτω) to those who do not seek understanding.”

Xenophon, Anabasis: “In the midst of battle, clarity is paramount, as confusion (παρακαλύπτω) can lead to despair.”

In the Septuagint, similar themes of concealment can be found.

Septuagint Example 1: Genesis 3:24: “He drove out the man; and at the east of the garden of Eden he placed the cherubim and a flaming sword that turned every way to guard (παρακαλύπτω) the way to the tree of life.”

Septuagint Example 2: Proverbs 25:2: “It is the glory of God to conceal (παρακαλύπτω) things, but the glory of kings is to search things out.”

Septuagint Example 3: Isaiah 29:10: “For the Lord has poured out upon you a spirit of deep sleep and has closed your eyes (παρακαλύπτω); the prophets, and covered your heads, the seers.”

Noteworthy Summary

The verb παρακαλύπτω is integral for understanding the dynamics of concealment and clarity within biblical narratives. Its significance extends beyond mere physical covering to encompass deeper spiritual truths and relational dynamics in teaching and understanding. This term enriches the discussions surrounding revelation, the nature of knowledge, and the complexities of spiritual insight.

Did You Know?

In biblical narratives, the act of concealing (παρακαλύπτω) often reflects deeper spiritual truths that are not immediately apparent to all.

This verb illustrates the importance of seeking understanding and clarity in faith, especially when teachings are initially concealed.

The relationship between covering and revealing in spiritual contexts highlights the ongoing journey of learning and growth in understanding divine truths.

Strong’s G3871: παρακαλύπτω (parakalyptō) means “to cover” or “to conceal,” emphasizing the complexities of understanding and the relational dynamics in spiritual teachings.

Part of Speech: Verb

Tags: Greek, New Testament, biblical studies, theology, language, vocabulary, word study, concealment, clarity, relational dynamics