κατακαλύπτω

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Greek word katakalýptō, represented by G2619, means to cover wholly or veil. It is a specific term derived from κατά and καλύπτω. This word appears 4 times across 2 unique verses in the Bible, focusing entirely on the concept of veiling or covering the head.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

In its biblical usage, G2619 is found exclusively in 1 Corinthians. It establishes a directive regarding head coverings, stating that a man "ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God" 1 Corinthians 11:7. In contrast, the word is applied to women as a necessary practice. The text argues that if a woman is not covered, she should be shorn, but since that is a shame, "let her be covered" 1 Corinthians 11:6. The repetition of the word in this verse emphasizes its central importance to the passage's instruction.

Related Words & Concepts

Several related words provide context for the act of covering or the part of the body being covered:

• G2776 kephalḗ (the head): This is the object that G2619 acts upon. The dossier shows its use in passages about covering the head 1 Corinthians 11:7, shaving the head Acts 21:24, and Christ as the head of the church Colossians 1:18.
• G2751 keírō (to shear): This word is presented as a direct consequence for a woman who is not covered. In 1 Corinthians 11:6, the alternative to being covered is to "be shorn."
• G3587 xyráō (to shave or "shear" the hair): Used alongside being shorn, this is depicted as a shameful state. If it is a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, the passage concludes she should be covered 1 Corinthians 11:6.

Theological Significance

The theological weight of G2619 is tied directly to the symbolism of the act of covering.

• Representation of Glory: The act of covering or not covering is explicitly linked to glory. A man is not to cover his head because he is the "glory of God," while the woman is the "glory of the man" 1 Corinthians 11:7.
• Avoiding Shame: Being uncovered is directly equated with the shame associated with being "shorn or shaven" 1 Corinthians 11:6. Therefore, to be covered is to maintain a state of propriety and avoid shame.
• Instructional Command: The use of G2619 is not merely descriptive but prescriptive within its context, presented as a clear instruction: "let her be covered" 1 Corinthians 11:6.

Summary

In summary, G2619 is a focused term for the act of wholly covering or veiling, used specifically in relation to head coverings in 1 Corinthians. It is not just about a physical action but carries significant symbolic meaning, contrasting the honor of being covered with the shame of being shorn. This word illustrates how a simple physical act is imbued with theological significance concerning glory, order, and propriety in the biblical text.