### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **koniáō**, represented by `{{G2867}}`, means **to whitewash** or **whiten**. Derived from a word for dust or lime, it appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**. In scripture, it is used metaphorically to describe a surface-level righteousness that conceals inner corruption.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both biblical uses of `{{G2867}}` are figurative and carry a strong rebuke against hypocrisy. In Matthew, Jesus condemns the scribes and Pharisees, comparing them to "**whited** sepulchres" that look beautiful on the outside but are full of "dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness" on the inside [[Matthew 23:27]]. Similarly, in Acts, the Apostle Paul rebukes the high priest by calling him a "**whited** wall," an insult implying a corrupt core hidden behind a facade of lawful authority [[Acts 23:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context of hypocrisy and deceptive appearances:
* `{{G5109}}` **toîchos** (a wall): This word is the object of the whitewashing in Paul's condemnation of the high priest as a "whited **wall**" [[Acts 23:3]].
* `{{G5180}}` **týptō** (to smite, strike, wound): This verb is used in [[Acts 23:3]], where Paul declares that God will **smite** the "whited wall," linking the hypocrisy of being whitewashed with deserving judgment.
* `{{G5316}}` **phaínō** (to appear, seem, shine): This describes the outward look of the whited sepulchres, which "**appear** beautiful" but are inwardly corrupt, reinforcing the theme of false appearances [[Matthew 23:27]].
* `{{G5611}}` **hōraîos** (beautiful): This adjective is used to describe the outward appearance of the sepulchres in [[Matthew 23:27]], highlighting the stark contrast between the **beautiful** facade and the uncleanness within.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2867}}` is centered on the condemnation of spiritual hypocrisy.
* **Appearance vs. Reality:** The act of whitewashing serves as a powerful symbol for the biblical theme of a deceptive exterior hiding a corrupt interior. It is used to critique those whose actions appear righteous but whose hearts are unclean [[Matthew 23:27]].
* **Religious Hypocrisy:** Both instances of the word are directed at religious leaders who fail to practice the piety they profess. It critiques an authority that is merely a facade, like a "whited wall" [[Acts 23:3]].
* **Subject of Judgment:** The state of being "whited" is directly associated with divine judgment. Jesus pronounces a "woe" upon the "whited sepulchres" [[Matthew 23:27]], and Paul declares that God will smite the "whited wall" [[Acts 23:3]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2867}}` is more than its literal definition of applying a coat of paint. In its two biblical occurrences, **koniáō** becomes a potent metaphor for hypocrisy. It powerfully illustrates the spiritual danger of cultivating an outward appearance of righteousness while allowing for inner corruption, a state that is strongly condemned in scripture.
TRV