### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word περίκειμαι (G4029), transliterated as *períkeimai*, is a compound verb formed from the preposition περί (G4012), meaning "around" or "about," and the verb κεῖμαι (G2749), meaning "to lie" or "to be laid." The literal sense, therefore, is "to lie around" or "to be placed around." This core meaning extends to convey the ideas of encircling, encompassing, or being surrounded. Figuratively, it can denote being hampered, constrained, or burdened by something, or conversely, being adorned or provided for. The semantic range thus encompasses both literal enclosure and metaphorical states of being encompassed or burdened by circumstances, conditions, or even supportive presences.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The lemma περίκειμαι (G4029) appears three times in the New Testament, each instance offering a nuanced application of its core meaning:
1. **[[Acts 28:10]]**: "who also honored us with many honors; and when we departed, they put on board such things as were necessary." Here, the verb is used in a more literal, yet somewhat extended, sense. The people of Malta "laden" or "put on board" necessary provisions for Paul and his companions. This implies that the provisions were "placed around" or "provided for" them, equipping them for their onward journey. The context is one of hospitality and divine provision after their shipwreck.
2. **[[Hebrews 5:2]]**: "who can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness." In this verse, περίκειμαι is used figuratively to describe the high priest's condition of being "compassed with" or "beset by" weakness (ἀσθένεια). This highlights the shared human frailty of the high priest, which enables him to empathize with and show compassion to those he serves. It underscores the necessity of a compassionate mediator who understands human limitations.
3. **[[Hebrews 12:1]]**: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us." This is perhaps the most well-known usage, where believers are depicted as being "surrounded by" (περίκειμαι) a "great cloud of witnesses." This "cloud" refers to the heroes of faith enumerated in [[Hebrews 11]], who stand as a testament and encouragement to those running the race of faith. The imagery is one of being encompassed by a vast, inspiring presence, urging perseverance.
### Related Words & Concepts
The etymology of περίκειμαι naturally links it to its component parts:
* περί (G4012): The preposition "around," which frequently indicates proximity, encompassing, or concerning.
* κεῖμαι (G2749): The verb "to lie," "to be laid," or "to be placed," often used to describe a passive state of being situated.
Other related Greek words that convey a sense of surrounding or encompassing include:
* κυκλόω (G2944): "to encircle," "to surround."
* περικυκλόω (G4029, though the lemma for this entry is specifically περίκειμαι): A more intensive form of κυκλόω, meaning "to surround completely."
* περιβάλλω (G4016): "to throw around," "to clothe," "to surround."
The concept of being "surrounded" or "encompassed" carries various theological implications, from vulnerability and constraint to protection and encouragement.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of περίκειμαι (G4029) is primarily illuminated through its figurative uses in the Epistle to the Hebrews:
In **[[Hebrews 5:2]]**, the high priest's being "compassed with infirmity" (ἀσθένεια) is crucial for understanding his role. This shared human weakness is not a disqualification but a prerequisite for genuine compassion and effective mediation. It foreshadows the empathetic priesthood of Christ, who, though sinless, fully identified with human weakness (cf. [[Hebrews 4:15]]). This highlights the divine design that even those in spiritual authority are not exempt from the human condition, fostering humility and relatable leadership.
In **[[Hebrews 12:1]]**, the "great cloud of witnesses" by which believers are "surrounded" provides a profound theological backdrop for Christian endurance. These witnesses are not passive spectators but active participants in the ongoing story of faith, whose lives testify to God's faithfulness. Their presence serves as both an inspiration and a challenge, reminding believers that they are part of a larger, historical community of faith. This imagery underscores the communion of saints, the continuity of God's redemptive plan through generations, and the encouragement derived from the examples of those who have successfully run their race. It transforms the solitary struggle of faith into a communal journey, witnessed and affirmed by a heavenly host.
In **[[Acts 28:10]]**, while less overtly theological, the act of being "laden" or "provided for" by the Maltese people speaks to God's providential care for His servants, even in unexpected and challenging circumstances. It demonstrates how God uses human kindness and hospitality to sustain His mission and His people.
### Summary
The Greek word περίκειμαι (G4029) fundamentally means "to lie around" or "to be placed around," extending to the concepts of encircling, encompassing, and being surrounded. Its New Testament occurrences illustrate both literal and, more significantly, figurative applications. In [[Acts 28:10]], it denotes being supplied or laden with provisions, signifying divine care and human hospitality. In the Epistle to the Hebrews, περίκειμαι takes on profound theological weight. In [[Hebrews 5:2]], it describes the high priest's essential state of being "beset with weakness," enabling compassionate ministry. Most notably, in [[Hebrews 12:1]], it powerfully portrays believers as "surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses," emphasizing the inspiring and encouraging presence of past heroes of faith. Across its uses, περίκειμαι conveys the reality of being encompassed—whether by physical provisions, human frailty, or a divine fellowship—each instance revealing aspects of God's providential care, the nature of spiritual leadership, and the communal encouragement inherent in the Christian journey.
TRV