### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb epikalýptō (`{{G1943}}`) is a compound word formed from the preposition epí (upon, over) and the verb kalýptō (`{{G2572}}`, to cover, hide). Literally, it signifies to cover completely, to overlay, or to conceal. This can imply an act of hiding something from view, either to protect it or to obscure it. Figuratively, and as exclusively used in the New Testament, it carries the profound meaning of covering sins, which is synonymous with forgiveness or non-imputation. It suggests an act of divine concealment, where transgressions are not merely overlooked but are actively covered over, rendering them no longer visible or chargeable before God.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term epikalýptō (`{{G1943}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in [[Romans 4:7]]. Paul, in developing his foundational argument for justification by faith, quotes from Psalm 32:1-2 (LXX), stating: "Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered." The full passage in [[Romans 4:6-8]] reads: "Just as David also speaks of the blessing of the man to whom God counts righteousness apart from works: 'Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered; blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin.'"
In this crucial context, epikalýptō is presented as a parallel concept to "forgiven" (ἀφίημι, `{{G863}}`) and stands in direct contrast to God "counting" or "imputing" sin. The covering of sins is thus an act of divine grace, a declaration that the transgressions are no longer held against the individual. Paul uses this Old Testament quotation to demonstrate that the principle of justification by faith, apart from the works of the law, was already present and celebrated in the Psalms, exemplified by David's experience of forgiveness. The "covering" signifies a complete removal of the guilt and penalty of sin from God's sight.
### Related Words & Concepts
The root verb kalýptō (`{{G2572}}`) means simply "to cover" or "to hide." Its compound form epikalýptō intensifies this action, suggesting a thorough or complete covering. Other significant Greek terms for forgiveness include aphiēmi (`{{G863}}`), meaning "to send away, let go, forgive," which is used in parallel with epikalýptō in [[Romans 4:7]]. Another common term is charizomai (`{{G5483}}`), "to grant as a favor, forgive."
In the Old Testament, the Septuagint's use of epikalýptō in Psalm 32:1 (which Paul quotes) translates the Hebrew verb kāsa (`{{H3680}}`), which means "to cover, conceal, hide." This connection underscores the continuity of the concept of divine covering of sin, a theological truth deeply rooted in the Old Covenant and brought to its fulfillment in the New. The idea of "covering" sin also resonates with the Old Testament sacrificial system, where the blood of sacrifices provided a temporary covering for sin, prefiguring the ultimate covering provided by Christ.
### Theological Significance
The singular occurrence of epikalýptō (`{{G1943}}`) in [[Romans 4:7]] is rich with theological import. It speaks directly to the nature of divine forgiveness, portraying it as a comprehensive "covering" of sin that renders it no longer visible or chargeable before God. This concept is foundational to Paul's doctrine of justification by faith, where God declares a sinner righteous not by their works, but by crediting them with righteousness. Central to this divine declaration is the complete covering of their sins.
The "blessedness" described in [[Romans 4:7]] is the profound spiritual state of one whose transgressions have been divinely concealed, a state of peace and reconciliation with God. This covering of sin is not merely an act of overlooking but a radical transformation of one's standing before a holy God. While the word itself does not explicitly mention Christ, the broader context of Paul's theology in Romans makes it clear that such a covering is ultimately made possible through the atoning work of Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice provides the basis for God's just and merciful covering of sin. It highlights God's character as one who is both just and the justifier of those who have faith in Jesus.
### Summary
The Greek verb epikalýptō (`{{G1943}}`), meaning "to cover completely" or "to conceal," is used uniquely in the New Testament in [[Romans 4:7]]. There, quoting Psalm 32:1, it signifies the profound divine act of forgiving sins by "covering" them, rendering them as if they never were in God's sight. This term underscores the blessedness of justification by faith, where God, through His grace and the atoning work of Christ, cleanses and conceals the transgressions of the believer, demonstrating His character as the one who graciously pardons and does not impute sin. It powerfully conveys the completeness and finality of divine forgiveness.
TRV