from σύν and καλύπτω; to conceal altogether:--cover.
Transliteration:synkalýptō
Pronunciation:soong-kal-oop'-to
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb συγκαλύπτω (synkalýptō, `{{G4780}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition σύν (syn), meaning "with" or "together," and the verb καλύπτω (kalýptō, `{{G2572}}`), meaning "to cover," "to hide," or "to conceal." The prefix σύν intensifies the action of the base verb, lending the meaning "to cover altogether," "to conceal completely," or "to hide thoroughly." It implies an act of making something entirely imperceptible or unknown, suggesting a comprehensive and deliberate act of concealment. The semantic range is therefore limited to this emphatic sense of complete covering.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb συγκαλύπτω (synkalýptō, `{{G4780}}`) appears only once in the New Testament, in the Gospel of Luke:
* [[Luke 12:2]]: "But there is nothing *covered* that will not be revealed, and nothing hidden that will not be known."
In this verse, the word is used in the passive participle form, "συγκαλυμμένον" (synkalymmenon), referring to that which has been completely concealed. The context is Jesus's teaching to His disciples about hypocrisy and fear. He warns them against the "leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy" ([[Luke 12:1]]). The subsequent statement in [[Luke 12:2]] serves as a profound pronouncement regarding the ultimate unveiling of all secrets, whether good or evil, at the eschatological judgment. The thoroughness of the concealment implied by συγκαλύπτω emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the future divine revelation. What has been meticulously hidden will be unequivocally exposed.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **καλύπτω (kalýptō) `{{G2572}}`:** The root verb, meaning "to cover" or "to hide." συγκαλύπτω is a more emphatic form, signifying a complete or thorough covering.
* **ἀποκαλύπτω (apokalyptō) `{{G601}}`:** The direct antonym, meaning "to uncover," "to reveal," or "to disclose." This word is the root of "apocalypse" (ἀποκάλυψις), referring to a revelation or unveiling. In [[Luke 12:2]], συγκαλύπτω stands in stark contrast to the implied future revelation.
* **κρύπτω (kryptō) `{{G2928}}`:** Another common Greek verb meaning "to hide" or "to conceal," often implying a secret or private act. While κρύπτω focuses on the act of hiding, συγκαλύπτω emphasizes the completeness of the covering.
* **Truth and Transparency:** The concept conveyed by συγκαλύπτω is deeply intertwined with the divine attributes of omniscience and the ultimate triumph of truth over all forms of deception and hiddenness.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of συγκαλύπτω in [[Luke 12:2]] carries significant theological weight.
* **Divine Omniscience and Judgment:** It fundamentally asserts God's absolute knowledge. No secret, no matter how deeply or thoroughly concealed by human effort, can escape the divine gaze. This serves as a solemn warning to those who practice hypocrisy or engage in hidden sins, assuring them that their deeds, motives, and words will ultimately be brought into the light of divine scrutiny.
* **Eschatological Certainty:** The verse points to a future, definitive moment when all things will be made manifest. This is a foundational theme in biblical eschatology, where God's perfect justice and truth will ultimately prevail. The "uncovering" (ἀποκάλυψις) of that which was "completely covered" (συγκαλυμμένον) is an integral act of divine righteousness and judgment.
* **Call to Integrity:** For believers, this teaching serves as a powerful encouragement to live lives of authenticity, integrity, and transparency before God. Since nothing can be truly hidden from the Almighty, there is no benefit in attempting to conceal actions or motives. It promotes a life lived "in the light," reflecting the character of God.
* **Comfort for the Righteous:** Conversely, for those who suffer injustice, are falsely accused, or whose good deeds go unrecognized, the promise that "nothing hidden that will not be known" offers profound comfort and assurance. God sees all, and ultimate vindication and justice will be served in His time.
### Summary
The Greek word συγκαλύπτω (synkalýptō, `{{G4780}}`) means "to cover altogether" or "to conceal completely," emphasizing a thorough and comprehensive act of hiding. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[Luke 12:2]] is pivotal: "But there is nothing *covered* that will not be revealed, and nothing hidden that will not be known." This declaration underscores the absolute omniscience of God and the certainty of a future divine revelation and judgment. It stands in direct contrast to concepts of unveiling (ἀποκαλύπτω) and highlights the futility of attempting to hide anything from the divine gaze. Theologically, συγκαλύπτω serves as a profound reminder of God's perfect knowledge, the inevitability of ultimate accountability, and the call for believers to live lives of integrity and transparency, trusting in the eventual triumph of God's truth and justice.
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