### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]]).
### Summary
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