### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parakalýptō**, represented by `{{G3871}}`, means to **hide** or veil something figuratively. A rare term, it appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. The word's components, meaning "to cover alongside," suggest an intentional act of obscuring or concealing, particularly in the context of understanding.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G3871}}` is found in [[Luke 9:45]], where it describes the disciples' inability to grasp a specific teaching. The scripture says the meaning of a "saying" **was hid** from them, which prevented them from perceiving its truth. This veiling of understanding was so profound that it also caused them to **fear** asking for clarification about the very saying they could not comprehend [[Luke 9:45]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the passage illuminate the concept of hidden understanding:
* `{{G50}}` **agnoéō** (not to know): This describes the state of the disciples, who "understood not" the saying because it was hidden. This term points to a lack of information or intelligence regarding a matter [[Luke 9:45]].
* `{{G143}}` **aisthánomai** (perceive): The saying was hidden for the express purpose that the disciples would not **perceive** it. This highlights that the hiddenness was a direct barrier to sensory or mental apprehension [[Luke 9:45]].
* `{{G5399}}` **phobéō** (to be alarmed): The disciples' reaction to their own lack of understanding was to **fear**. This emotional response prevented them from seeking the very knowledge that was veiled from them [[Luke 9:45]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3871}}` is centered on the theme of spiritual perception and the veiling of divine truth.
* **Spiritual Blindness:** The hiding of the saying in [[Luke 9:45]] is a direct cause of the disciples' failure to understand. This connects to a broader scriptural theme where truth is veiled from those who are not ready or able to see it, such as when hearts are hardened so that people cannot understand [[John 12:40]].
* **The Nature of a Divine Saying:** The object that was hidden is described as a **rhēma** `{{G4487}}`, or "saying." These divine utterances are presented elsewhere as the source of life and truth, by which humanity lives and faith is generated ([[Matthew 4:4]], [[Romans 10:17]]). For such a word to be hidden underscores a significant spiritual moment.
* **The Purpose of Hiddenness:** The text states the saying was hidden "that they perceived it not" [[Luke 9:45]]. This implies a deliberate purpose behind the lack of clarity, a theme echoed in passages where mysteries are revealed only at the proper time or to those who are prepared to receive them [[Colossians 1:27]].
### Summary
In summary, **parakalýptō** `{{G3871}}` is more than just a word for hiding; it signifies a deliberate, figurative veiling of spiritual truth. Its single appearance in scripture captures a critical moment of the disciples' journey, illustrating that understanding is not always immediate. The term demonstrates how a lack of perception can lead to fear and highlights the profound reality that divine revelation operates on a plane beyond simple human intellect.
TRV