### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἀκατακάλυπτος (akatakályptos, `{{G177}}`) is formed from a negative particle (α-, alpha privative) prefixed to the verb κατακαλύπτω (katakalyptō, `{{G2619}}`). The root verb κατακαλύπτω means "to cover completely," "to veil," or "to hide thoroughly," being a compound of κατά (katá, "down," "completely") and καλύπτω (kalýptō, `{{G2572}}`, "to cover," "to conceal"). Therefore, with the addition of the negative α-, ἀκατακάλυπτος literally translates to "uncovered," "unveiled," or "not completely covered." Its semantic range is narrow, specifically denoting the absence of a covering, particularly a veil or head covering, implying a state of openness or exposure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἀκατακάλυπτος (akatakályptos, `{{G177}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in Paul's first epistle to the Corinthians:
* [[1 Corinthians 11:5]]: "But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head—it is the same as having her head shaved."
In this singular occurrence, the word is used in the context of Paul's instructions regarding head coverings for women during public prayer or prophecy within the Corinthian church. The phrase "with her head uncovered" (ἀκατακαλύπτῳ τῇ κεφαλῇ) describes a woman who is not wearing the customary head covering. Paul asserts that such an action brings dishonor upon her head, equating it to the extreme shame of having her head shaved, a practice associated with public disgrace or punishment in that cultural context. The passage is part of a broader discussion on order, authority, and the representation of divine glory in worship. The "uncovered" state for a woman is presented as an act contrary to the established order Paul describes, which reflects the relationship between Christ and man, and man and woman.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the verb from which ἀκατακάλυπτος (akatakályptos, `{{G177}}`) is derived: κατακαλύπτω (katakalyptō, `{{G2619}}`), meaning "to cover completely" or "to veil." This word represents the direct opposite state. Another related term is καλύπτω (kalýptō, `{{G2572}}`), the more general verb for "to cover" or "to conceal." While ἀποκαλύπτω (apokalyptō, `{{G601}}`), meaning "to uncover" or "to reveal," shares the same root καλύπτω, its semantic domain typically refers to divine revelation or disclosure of hidden truths, rather than a physical state of being uncovered as in ἀκατακάλυπτος.
Conceptually, ἀκατακάλυπτος relates to themes of:
* **Honor and Shame:** The state of being "uncovered" is explicitly linked to dishonor in [[1 Corinthians 11:5]].
* **Divine Order and Headship:** Paul's argument in 1 Corinthians 11 is predicated on a divinely established order of authority (God -> Christ -> man -> woman). The covering or uncovering symbolizes adherence to or deviation from this order.
* **Cultural Norms and Symbolism:** The practice of head covering carried significant cultural meaning in the ancient world, often symbolizing modesty, submission, or marital status. Paul utilizes this cultural symbol to convey deeper theological truths about creation and order.
* **Glory:** The passage also speaks to man being the "image and glory of God" and the woman being the "glory of man," with the covering serving as a sign of this relational dynamic.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἀκατακάλυπτος (akatakályptos, `{{G177}}`) is entirely derived from its solitary, yet potent, context in [[1 Corinthians 11:5]]. It serves as a key term in Paul's instruction regarding appropriate conduct in Christian worship. The "uncovered" state for a woman praying or prophesying is not presented as merely a social faux pas, but as an action that dishonors her "head," which in this context refers both to her husband (or man in general) and ultimately to Christ, in the chain of authority.
This passage underscores the importance Paul places on outward expressions reflecting inward theological realities and adherence to divine order. The covering (or lack thereof) becomes a visible sign of a woman's recognition of her place within God's created order and the relationships of authority established therein. While the specific cultural practice of head coverings is debated in contemporary application, the underlying principles of reverence, order, and the symbolic representation of theological truths in corporate worship remain profoundly significant. The word highlights how even physical actions can carry deep spiritual meaning and contribute to the honor or dishonor of God and His established patterns.
### Summary
The Greek word ἀκατακάλυπτος (akatakályptos, `{{G177}}`) means "uncovered" or "unveiled," formed by negating the concept of being completely covered. Its sole occurrence in the New Testament is in [[1 Corinthians 11:5]], where it describes a woman's head being without a covering during prayer or prophecy. In this context, it signifies a state deemed dishonorable by Paul, serving as a critical element in his discourse on divine order, headship, and appropriate conduct in Christian worship. The word, therefore, points to the symbolic weight of physical actions in expressing adherence to or deviation from God's established patterns and the principles of honor and shame within the early Christian community.
TRV