### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **spḗlaion**, represented by `{{G4693}}`, is a term for a **cavern** or, by implication, a **hiding-place** or resort. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible, where it is translated as either **cave** or **den**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G4693}}` signifies different kinds of shelters. It is used metaphorically by Jesus to condemn the corruption in the temple, which he says has been made a "**den** of thieves" [[Matthew 21:13]]. The term also describes literal locations of hiding and dwelling. For the faithful under persecution, it was a refuge, as they "wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in **dens** and caves of the earth" [[Hebrews 11:38]]. In contrast, during the tribulation, the fearful hid themselves "in the **dens** and in the rocks of the mountains" [[Revelation 6:15]]. Finally, it serves as a place of burial, as the grave of Lazarus was a **cave** [[John 11:38]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the contexts in which `{{G4693}}` is found:
* `{{G3027}}` **lēistḗs** (a brigand:--robber, thief): This word is directly linked to `{{G4693}}` in the accounts of the temple cleansing, where Jesus declares that the house of prayer has been turned into a "den of **thieves**" [[Mark 11:17]].
* `{{G3419}}` **mnēmeîon** (a remembrance, i.e. cenotaph (place of interment):--grave, sepulchre, tomb): This term is used interchangeably with `{{G4693}}` in the story of Lazarus, where the narrative states that his **grave** "was a **cave**" [[John 11:38]].
* `{{G3692}}` **opḗ** (a hole (as if for light), i.e. cavern; by analogy, a spring (of water):--cave, place): This word is used in parallel with `{{G4693}}` to describe the desolate hiding places of the faithful in [[Hebrews 11:38]], who wandered in "**dens** and **caves** of the earth."
* `{{G4073}}` **pétra** (a (mass of) rock (literally or figuratively):--rock): This term appears alongside `{{G4693}}` in [[Revelation 6:15]], where people attempt to hide from judgment in "**dens** and in the **rocks** of the mountains."
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4693}}` is revealed in its contrasting applications, representing places of both safety and danger, reverence and corruption.
* **A Symbol of Corruption:** Its use in the Gospels highlights the profaning of a sacred space. By calling the temple a "den of thieves," Jesus contrasts God's intended house of prayer with a hideout for criminals [[Luke 19:46]].
* **A Place of Hiding:** The word illustrates two opposing reasons for seeking shelter. For the righteous, a cave is a refuge from worldly persecution [[Hebrews 11:38]]. For the unrighteous, it is a futile shelter from divine judgment [[Revelation 6:15]].
* **A Site of Death and Resurrection:** The cave as Lazarus's tomb is a place of death and sorrow. However, it becomes the stage for one of Jesus's greatest miracles, transforming a symbol of finality into a scene of divine power over death [[John 11:38]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4693}}` is a versatile word whose meaning is heavily dependent on its context. It is far more than a simple geographical feature, serving as a powerful symbol for corruption, refuge, judgment, and ultimately, the arena for Christ's life-giving power. The use of **spḗlaion** shows how a physical place can represent profound spiritual realities, from a criminal's hideout to the tomb from which Lazarus was called forth.
TRV