from a compound of κατά and a congener of πέτομαι; something spread thoroughly, i.e. (specially) the door screen (to the Most Holy Place) in the Jewish Temple:--vail.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **katapétasma**, represented by `{{G2665}}`, refers to a **vail** or door screen. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. The term is defined as "something spread thoroughly" and specifically denotes the screen to the Most Holy Place in the Jewish Temple.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2665}}` is used to describe a significant physical and symbolic barrier. It is identified as the "second **veil**" which separated the Holiest of all within the **tabernacle** [[Hebrews 9:3]]. A pivotal event recorded in three Gospels is the rending of the **vail** of the **temple** "from the top to the bottom" ([[Matthew 27:51]]; [[Mark 15:38]]), an event also described as being torn "in the midst" [[Luke 23:45]]. The term is also used symbolically, where our hope is described as an anchor that enters "within the **veil**" [[Hebrews 6:19]], and the **vail** itself is equated with Christ's flesh [[Hebrews 10:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the function and location of the vail:
* `{{G3485}}` **naós** (a fane, shrine, temple): This word identifies the location where the vail was famously torn. The Gospels state that "the **veil** of the **temple** was rent" [[Matthew 27:51]].
* `{{G4633}}` **skēnḗ** (a tent or cloth hut): This term describes the mobile sanctuary that housed the vail. It is mentioned in the context of the "second **veil**, the **tabernacle** which is called the Holiest of all" [[Hebrews 9:3]].
* `{{G4977}}` **schízō** (to split or sever): This verb describes the action performed upon the vail. The Gospels record that the vail of the temple was **rent** [[Luke 23:45]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2665}}` is immense, centering on the theme of access to God.
* **A New and Living Way:** The primary theological significance of `{{G2665}}` is revealed when the vail is torn. It symbolizes a new access to God, consecrated for us "through the **veil**, that is to say, his flesh" [[Hebrews 10:20]].
* **The Barrier Removed:** The physical rending of the **vail** of the **temple** ([[Matthew 27:51]]; [[Mark 15:38]]; [[Luke 23:45]]) is a historical event with profound spiritual meaning, signifying the removal of the barrier to the Holiest of all.
* **An Anchor for the Soul:** The concept of the vail is used to illustrate spiritual assurance. Believers have a hope that serves as a "sure and stedfast" anchor for the soul, entering into the presence of God "within the **veil**" [[Hebrews 6:19]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2665}}` moves from being a physical screen in the **temple** and **tabernacle** to a profound theological symbol. Its dramatic rending, as recorded in the Gospels, is interpreted in Hebrews as the opening of a new way to God through the flesh of Christ. The word **katapétasma** thus encapsulates the transition from an old system of worship to the new, direct access believers have to God's presence, secured by a hope that enters beyond the **vail**.
TRV