### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **skiá**, represented by `{{G4639}}`, is a primary word meaning **"shade"** or a **shadow**. It appears **7 times** across **7 unique verses** in the Bible. Its meaning can be literal, referring to physical shade, or figurative, where it describes the darkness of error or serves as an adumbration of a greater reality.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its usage, `{{G4639}}` carries both literal and symbolic weight. Literally, it is used to describe the physical shade cast by an object, such as the branches of a large plant [[Mark 4:32]] or the passing figure of Peter [[Acts 5:15]]. Figuratively, it is often paired with death to describe a state of profound spiritual darkness and peril, as seen in the phrase "the **shadow** of death" ([[Matthew 4:16]]; [[Luke 1:79]]). Most significantly, it is used to represent an imperfect, preliminary outline of a future reality. The Old Testament law is described as a **"shadow** of good things to come" [[Hebrews 10:1]], and the tabernacle service is an "example and **shadow** of heavenly things" [[Hebrews 8:5]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{G4639}}`:
* `{{G1982}}` **episkiázō** (to cast a shade upon): This term, derived from `skiá`, means to envelop or invest with preternatural influence. It is used in connection with `skiá` in [[Acts 5:15]], where the hope was that Peter's **shadow** might **overshadow** the sick.
* `{{G4655}}` **skótos** (darkness): From the same base as `skiá`, this word refers to obscurity. It appears alongside `skiá` to emphasize a state of spiritual despair, describing those who sit in **darkness** and the **shadow** of death [[Luke 1:79]].
* `{{G4983}}` **sōma** (body): This word is used in direct contrast to `skiá` to distinguish between a preliminary outline and the substance itself. This is seen clearly where certain practices are called a **shadow**, "but the **body** is of Christ" [[Colossians 2:17]].
* `{{G1504}}` **eikṓn** (image): In a similar contrast, `eikṓn` represents a true likeness or representation, whereas `skiá` is merely a faint outline. The law is described as having a **shadow**, not "the very **image** of the things" [[Hebrews 10:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4639}}` is primarily found in its use as a metaphor for foreshadowing.
* **Old Covenant as a Foreshadowing:** The Law and the tabernacle are consistently presented not as the final reality, but as a **shadow** pointing toward something greater. They serve as a temporary "pattern" of the "heavenly things" that are fulfilled in Christ [[Hebrews 8:5]].
* **The Substance in Christ:** The New Testament uses `skiá` to emphasize that religious rituals and ordinances were preliminary outlines. The ultimate substance and reality that cast this **shadow** is Christ himself [[Colossians 2:17]].
* **Spiritual State before Christ:** The combination of **shadow** and death powerfully illustrates the human condition without divine intervention. It describes a state of spiritual gloom from which Christ comes to "give light" ([[Matthew 4:16]]; [[Luke 1:79]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4639}}` moves from a simple, literal meaning of physical shade to a profound theological concept. It functions as a key term to understand the relationship between the Old and New Covenants, positioning the law and its rituals as a preliminary outline or **shadow**. The true substance, reality, and light that dispels this **shadow** is found in the person and work of Christ.
TRV