### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kalýptō**, represented by `{{G2572}}`, means to **cover** up, either literally or figuratively. It is also translated as **hide**. According to the base definition, it is akin to κλέπτω and κρύπτω. It appears **8 times** in **7 unique verses**, illustrating its use in both physical and spiritual contexts.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In a literal sense, `{{G2572}}` describes physical concealment. A ship at sea was **covered** with waves `{{G2949}}` during a great tempest `{{G4578}}` [[Matthew 8:24]]. The word is used in a parable where no one who lights a candle `{{G3088}}` **covereth** it with a vessel `{{G4632}}` [[Luke 8:16]]. It also appears in a cry of anguish, where people ask the hills `{{G1015}}` to **cover** them [[Luke 23:30]]. Figuratively, the term is used to express spiritual realities. The gospel `{{G2098}}` can be **hid** to those who are lost `{{G622}}` [[2 Corinthians 4:3]], and it is stated that nothing is **covered** that will not ultimately be revealed `{{G601}}` [[Matthew 10:26]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the concept of covering and hiding:
* `{{G601}}` **apokalýptō** (to take off the cover, i.e. disclose): As the direct antonym, this word signifies revelation. It contrasts the temporary state of being covered with a future unveiling, such as when the Father **reveals** truth [[Matthew 16:17]].
* `{{G2927}}` **kryptós** (concealed, i.e. private): This word is a synonym for being hidden. It is used alongside `{{G2572}}` to emphasize that what is **hid** will be made known [[Matthew 10:26]], and it also describes the **hidden** man of the heart [[1 Peter 3:4]].
* `{{G266}}` **hamartía** (a sin (properly abstract)): This is what is figuratively covered or hidden in key passages. Charity is said to cover a multitude of **sins** [[1 Peter 4:8]], and the wages of **sin** is death `{{G2288}}` [[Romans 6:23]].
* `{{G2098}}` **euangélion** (a good message, i.e. the gospel): This is what is described as being "hid" from those who are perishing [[2 Corinthians 4:3]]. The **gospel** is a light that is not to be covered but preached [[Mark 16:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2572}}` is significant, highlighting key spiritual principles.
* **Divine Revelation:** The word is used to establish a contrast between temporary concealment and final, divine judgment. The statement that "nothing is **covered**, that shall not be revealed" [[Matthew 10:26]] underscores the principle that all secrets will eventually be brought to light `{{G5457}}`.
* **Atoning Love:** In both 1 Peter and James, love and conversion are given the power to **cover** or **hide** a multitude of sins `{{G266}}` ([[1 Peter 4:8]], [[James 5:20]]). This is not a concealment of guilt but a figurative expression of forgiveness and the restorative power of charity.
* **Spiritual Blindness:** The gospel `{{G2098}}` is **hid** from those who are lost `{{G622}}` [[2 Corinthians 4:3]]. This use of `{{G2572}}` illustrates that spiritual truth can be obscured not by God, but by the state of the unbeliever, who cannot perceive the light of the gospel.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2572}}` **kalýptō** carries a dual meaning that encompasses both literal and figurative concealment. From a ship being **covered** by waves [[Matthew 8:24]] to the gospel being **hid** from the perishing [[2 Corinthians 4:3]], the word is versatile. It forms a theological cornerstone for understanding the relationship between secrecy and revelation, sin and forgiveness, and spiritual blindness versus divine light. Ultimately, it illustrates how what is **covered**, whether physically or spiritually, is subject to a higher power that can either hide it in love or reveal it in truth.
TRV