### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **krýptō**, represented by `{{G2928}}`, is a primary verb meaning **to conceal (properly, by covering)**. It is also used to mean **hide (self), keep secret, secret(-ly)**. It appears **16 times** across **15 unique verses** in the Bible, illustrating concepts of both physical concealment and spiritual hiddenness.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G2928}}` is applied in several distinct contexts. It can describe the literal act of hiding a person or object, such as when Moses's parents **hid** him for three months [[Hebrews 11:23]] or when the unfaithful servant **hid** his master's talent in the earth [[Matthew 25:25]]. Figuratively, it describes truths that are intentionally veiled, as when Jesus speaks of things **kept secret** from the foundation of the world [[Matthew 13:35]] or when a saying was **hid** from the disciples' understanding [[Luke 18:34]]. It is also used to describe the profound spiritual reality of a believer's new identity, whose life is **hid** with Christ in God [[Colossians 3:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of concealment and its opposite, revelation:
* `{{G5457}}` **phōs** (light): This word stands in direct contrast to being hidden. In [[Matthew 5:14]], the statement that believers are the **light** of the world is immediately followed by the principle that a city on a hill cannot be **hid**.
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō** (to "know"): What is hidden is often unable to be known. In [[Revelation 2:17]], the promise of **hidden** manna is paired with a new name that no man **knoweth**. Likewise, when a saying was **hid** from the disciples, they **knew** not the things which were spoken [[Luke 18:34]].
* `{{G455}}` **anoígō** (to open up): This is a direct antonym. In [[Matthew 13:35]], Jesus declares He will **open** His mouth in parables to utter things that had been **kept secret**.
* `{{G1438}}` **heautoû** (himself): This reflexive pronoun is used with `{{G2928}}` to show a person actively hiding their own self, as when the kings of the earth **hid themselves** in dens [[Revelation 6:15]] or when Jesus **hid himself** from the crowd [[John 8:59]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2928}}` is significant, touching on themes of revelation, security, and judgment.
* **Divine Revelation and Concealment:** The word highlights God's sovereign control over what is known. Prophetic truths are described as things **kept secret** until they are uttered [[Matthew 13:35]], and spiritual understanding can be **hid** from those whose hearts are not prepared [[Luke 19:42]].
* **The Believer's Security:** The concept is central to the believer's position in Christ. The statement that "your life is **hid** with Christ in God" [[Colossians 3:3]] signifies a spiritual reality of safety and identity that is concealed from the world's view but is secure in God.
* **Humanity's Response to God:** Hiding is a common human reaction to divine presence and wrath. In Revelation, humanity attempts to **hide** from the face of Him on the throne [[Revelation 6:16]]. The servant who was afraid **hid** his talent, demonstrating a response of fear rather than faith [[Matthew 25:25]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2928}}` carries a meaning that extends beyond simple physical hiding. It is a key term for understanding the biblical dynamics of concealment and revelation. From the parables of Jesus involving a **hid** treasure [[Matthew 13:44]] to the promise of **hidden** manna for those who overcome [[Revelation 2:17]], the word consistently points to things of great value that are not immediately visible. It illustrates a core biblical theme: that some truths must be sought, some are divinely revealed, and some are securely **hid** in God himself.
TRV