The Greek word kályma, represented by G2571, means a cover or veil. It appears 4 times across 4 unique verses in the Bible. While it can refer to a literal object, its primary scriptural use is as a powerful metaphor for a barrier that obscures spiritual perception and understanding.
All occurrences of G2571 are found in 2 Corinthians chapter 3, where it serves a dual purpose. It is first mentioned literally, as the vail that Moses put over his face G4383 so the children of Israel could not look at the end of what was being abolished 2 Corinthians 3:13. This literal act becomes the basis for a figurative meaning. Paul explains that to this day, the same vail G2571 remains when the old testament is read, because their minds were blinded 2 Corinthians 3:14. This vail is said to be on their heart G2588 2 Corinthians 3:15, but it is taken away when one turns to the Lord 2 Corinthians 3:16.
Several related words help define the function and effect of the vail:
- G2588 kardía (the heart, i.e. (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind)): This is where the figurative vail is located, indicating that the barrier is internal. The vail G2571 is said to be upon their heart 2 Corinthians 3:15.
- G2673 katargéō (to be (render) entirely idle (useless), literally or figuratively:--abolish, cease, cumber, deliver, destroy, do away): This describes the status of the vail in Christ. The scripture states that the vail G2571 "is done away" in Christ 2 Corinthians 3:14.
- G4014 periairéō (to remove all around, i.e. unveil, cast off... take away): This is the action performed on the vail when one turns to God. When a heart turns to the Lord, "the vail shall be taken away" 2 Corinthians 3:16.
- G4383 prósōpon (the front... i.e. the countenance, aspect, appearance... face): This is the location of the literal vail, as Moses placed it over his face 2 Corinthians 3:13.
The theological significance of G2571 is concentrated in its metaphorical application:
- Spiritual Obstruction: The vail symbolizes a spiritual blindness that prevents understanding. It is explicitly linked to minds that "were blinded" G4456 when the old testament is read without the revelation of Christ 2 Corinthians 3:14.
- The Condition of the Heart: The placement of the vail upon the heart G2588 shows that the issue is not a lack of information but a state of spiritual hardness or unbelief 2 Corinthians 3:15.
- Christ as the Revealer: The central point is that the vail G2571 is only removed through Christ. He is the one in whom the vail is "done away" G2673, and turning to Him is the only way for it to be "taken away" G4014, allowing for true understanding (2 Corinthians 3:14, 2 Corinthians 3:16).
In summary, G2571 kályma transitions from a simple piece of cloth on Moses' face to a profound symbol of spiritual blindness. It represents the barrier on the human heart and mind that obscures the glory of God in the scriptures. Its significance lies not in the vail itself, but in the explicit declaration that only in Christ can this vail be taken away, granting clear sight and unveiled understanding.
TRV