### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective κρυπτός (kryptós, `{{G2927}}`) is derived directly from the verb κρύπτω (kryptō, `{{G2928}}`), which means "to hide," "to conceal," or "to keep secret." Consequently, kryptós signifies "hidden," "concealed," "secret," or "private." Its semantic range extends from literal physical concealment (e.g., something placed out of sight) to metaphorical and spiritual dimensions, referring to things that are not outwardly manifest, such as inner thoughts, motives, or the true character of a person. It often implies an intentional act of concealment or a state of being unknown, with the implication that such hiddenness may be temporary, awaiting future revelation. The term captures the essence of what lies beneath the surface, whether for good or ill.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term kryptós appears frequently in the New Testament, often highlighting a contrast between outward appearance and inward reality, or between present obscurity and future revelation.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus uses kryptós to describe acts of piety performed in secret, known only to God. For instance, in [[Matthew 6:4]], [[Matthew 6:6]], and [[Matthew 6:18]], Jesus instructs his disciples to give, pray, and fast "in secret" (ἐν τῷ κρυπτῷ), assuring them that "your Father who sees in secret will reward you." Here, kryptós emphasizes the genuine and humble nature of true devotion, contrasting it with hypocritical displays for human recognition.
The concept of divine revelation is powerfully conveyed through kryptós in passages like [[Luke 8:17]]: "For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor anything secret that will not be known and come to light." This echoes in [[Mark 4:22]] and [[Matthew 10:26]], underscoring the eschatological certainty that all concealed truths—whether good or evil—will ultimately be exposed by God.
Paul employs kryptós when discussing divine judgment. In [[Romans 2:16]], he speaks of the day when "God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus." Similarly, in [[1 Corinthians 4:5]], he states that the Lord "will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart." These verses use kryptós to refer to the hidden thoughts, intentions, and deeds of humanity, which are fully known to God and will be revealed at the final judgment.
In [[2 Corinthians 4:2]], Paul contrasts his ministry with those who practice "disgraceful, underhanded ways" (τὰ κρυπτὰ τῆς αἰσχύνης), literally "the hidden things of shame." This highlights the integrity and transparency of his gospel proclamation, rejecting any hidden motives or deceptive practices.
Perhaps one of the most profound uses is found in [[1 Peter 3:4]], where Peter advises women that their true beauty should be "the hidden person of the heart" (ὁ κρυπτὸς τῆς καρδίας ἄνθρωπος) adorned with a gentle and quiet spirit. Here, kryptós refers to the inner, spiritual essence of a person, emphasizing that true value lies in one's character and disposition before God, not in outward adornment.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most direct linguistic relative to kryptós is its root verb, κρύπτω (kryptō, `{{G2928}}`), meaning "to hide" or "to conceal." This verb often appears in contexts where something is deliberately kept secret or out of sight.
Antonymously, kryptós is frequently contrasted with terms signifying revelation or manifestation. Key among these are:
* φανερός (phaneros, `{{G5319}}`): meaning "manifest," "visible," "evident," or "public." This word often appears in direct opposition to kryptós, as seen in [[Luke 8:17]].
* ἀποκάλυψις (apokalypsis, `{{G602}}`): meaning "unveiling" or "revelation," which describes the act of making known what was previously hidden.
Theologically, kryptós is intimately connected with several core concepts:
* **Divine Omniscience:** The understanding that God sees and knows all things, even the deepest secrets of the human heart, which are kryptós to others.
* **True Piety vs. Hypocrisy:** The distinction between genuine, inward devotion known only to God and outward displays of religiosity for human approval.
* **Eschatological Judgment:** The certainty that all hidden deeds and motives will be brought to light on the Day of Judgment.
* **The Inner Person:** The biblical emphasis on the spiritual and moral state of the heart, which constitutes the true self, as opposed to external appearance or actions.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of kryptós is multifaceted and profound. Firstly, it powerfully underscores the **omniscience of God**. The frequent assertion that God sees "in secret" (e.g., [[Matthew 6:4]]) is not merely a statement about divine perception but a foundational truth that all human actions, thoughts, and intentions, no matter how concealed from human eyes, are utterly transparent before the Creator. This truth serves as both a comfort to the sincere and a solemn warning to the insincere.
Secondly, kryptós is central to Jesus' teaching on **authentic piety**. By commanding his followers to perform acts of righteousness "in secret," Jesus redefines true spirituality not as a public performance but as an intimate, heartfelt devotion directed solely towards God. This challenges the superficiality of religious outwardness and calls believers to cultivate an inner life of genuine faith and obedience, whose reward comes from God alone.
Thirdly, the concept of kryptós is inextricably linked to **eschatological revelation and divine judgment**. The repeated affirmation that "nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest" ([[Luke 8:17]]) serves as a fundamental principle of divine justice. It assures that all hidden wrongs will be exposed and all hidden good will be acknowledged. This provides hope for the oppressed and a call to repentance for those who practice evil in secret, knowing that a day of reckoning will come when all kryptós things will be brought into the light.
Finally, kryptós illuminates the **nature of the human person**. Peter's counsel to adorn "the hidden person of the heart" ([[1 Peter 3:4]]) elevates the inner spiritual and moral character above external appearance. It emphasizes that true beauty, value, and identity in God's sight reside in the transformed heart and spirit, cultivated in humility and godliness, rather than in transient outward adornments or accomplishments.
### Summary
The Greek word κρυπτός (kryptós, `{{G2927}}`) denotes that which is hidden, concealed, secret, or inward. Derived from the verb "to hide," it is used in the New Testament to describe both literal concealment and, more significantly, the unseen aspects of human life and divine reality. Key biblical uses highlight the contrast between outward appearance and inward truth, particularly in the context of genuine piety versus hypocrisy. Kryptós powerfully emphasizes God's omniscience, affirming that all hidden thoughts, motives, and deeds are known to Him and will ultimately be revealed. This concept undergirds the certainty of divine judgment and calls believers to cultivate an authentic, inner spirituality, where true value is found in the "hidden person of the heart" before God.
TRV