### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek lemma σκέπασμα (sképasma, `{{G4629}}`) primarily denotes "clothing" or "raiment." Its etymological root is linked to the concept of "covering" or "shelter," deriving from a word meaning "a covering." While Strong's suggests a possible connection to σκοπός (skopos, `{{G4649}}`) through the idea of something "noticed" or "seen," its dominant semantic range in biblical usage firmly establishes it as an article of dress, serving the function of providing protection, warmth, or modesty. It is a noun, indicating a tangible item.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word σκέπασμα (sképasma, `{{G4629}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, yet its singular occurrence carries significant weight within its context.
* **[[1 Timothy 6:8]]**: "But if we have food and σκέπασμα (sképasma), with these we will be content."
* In this pivotal verse, σκέπασμα (sképasma) is juxtaposed with "food" (τροφή, trophē, `{{G5160}}`), highlighting its status as a fundamental necessity for human life. Paul's instruction to Timothy emphasizes the virtue of contentment, contrasting it sharply with the perilous desire for wealth. The "clothing" referred to here is not luxurious attire but rather basic, functional covering. The passage underscores the sufficiency of God's provision for essential needs, advocating for a life free from avarice and marked by spiritual contentment. The context is a direct exhortation against covetousness and a call to embrace a simple, unadorned life, trusting in God's provision for what is truly necessary.
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of σκέπασμα (sképasma, `{{G4629}}`) is enriched by examining related terms and concepts:
* **General Terms for Clothing:**
* ἔνδυμα (endyma, `{{G1742}}`): A more general term for "clothing" or "garment," often used for what one puts on.
* ἱμάτιον (himation, `{{G2440}}`): Refers specifically to an "outer garment," "cloak," or "robe."
* χίτων (chitōn, `{{G5509}}`): Denotes an "inner garment," "tunic," or "undergarment."
* περιβολή (peribolē, `{{G4018}}`): A "covering," "mantle," or "vesture," often implying something thrown around the body.
* **Contentment:**
* αὐτάρκεια (autarkeia, `{{G841}}`): The core concept of "self-sufficiency" or "contentment" that Paul advocates for in [[1 Timothy 6]]. The possession of basic food and σκέπασμα (sképasma) is presented as the foundation for this state.
* **Basic Needs:** The pairing of σκέπασμα (sképasma) with "food" (τροφή, trophē, `{{G5160}}`) firmly places it within the category of fundamental human necessities, distinct from luxuries or desires fueled by greed.
* **Shelter/Protection:** While σκέπασμα (sképasma) specifically means clothing, its etymological root of "covering" conceptually links it to the broader idea of shelter and protection, though these are not its direct semantic equivalents in the New Testament.
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of σκέπασμα (sképasma, `{{G4629}}`) in [[1 Timothy 6:8]] carries profound theological implications, particularly concerning Christian ethics and discipleship.
* **Divine Provision and Contentment:** The word underscores the biblical truth that God faithfully provides for the essential needs of His people. When coupled with "food," σκέπασμα (sképasma) symbolizes the basic sustenance necessary for life. True godliness, as Paul argues, finds great gain in contentment with these fundamental provisions, rather than in the relentless pursuit of wealth. This teaching directly challenges a materialistic worldview and calls believers to cultivate trust in God's ultimate sufficiency.
* **Warning Against Materialism:** By designating σκέπασμα (sképasma) as a basic need, the passage implicitly condemns the insatiable desire for more than is necessary. It draws a stark contrast between the simple provision of clothing and "the love of money," which is identified as "a root of all kinds of evil" ([[1 Timothy 6:10]]). Thus, the word serves as a theological anchor for discussions on stewardship, simplicity, and the spiritual dangers of avarice.
* **Emphasis on Spiritual Riches:** The passage encourages believers to redirect their focus from accumulating earthly possessions, including lavish clothing, to diligently pursuing spiritual virtues such as righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness ([[1 Timothy 6:11]]). The modesty inherent in merely having "clothing" stands in stark contrast to ostentatious display, aligning with broader biblical principles that prioritize humility and inner beauty over outward adornment.
### Summary
The Greek word σκέπασμα (sképasma, `{{G4629}}`), meaning "clothing" or "raiment" and rooted in the concept of "covering," appears uniquely in the New Testament in [[1 Timothy 6:8]]. In this context, it is paired with "food" to signify the fundamental necessities of life. The theological significance of σκέπασμα (sképasma) centers on defining Christian contentment: believers are called to be satisfied with God's provision of basic food and clothing, thereby avoiding the spiritual pitfalls of materialism and the destructive pursuit of wealth. It stands as a potent reminder of divine sufficiency and the call to a life focused on enduring spiritual riches rather than fleeting temporal possessions.
TRV