κάλυμα
kályma
G2571 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
κάλυμα primarily denotes a covering—an object used to conceal, hide, or protect what is underneath, most commonly in the sense of a veil, cloth covering, or lid. In various contexts, particularly in Hellenistic and Koine Greek, it refers specifically to a veil (as worn by people to cover the face or head), or to any fabric or object that serves as a physical barrier between what is covered and what is visible. Its application can extend metaphorically to signify a barrier to understanding or revelation, but the concrete sense of a physical cover is primary.
Semantic Range
covering, veil, cloth cover, lid, curtain, barrier, fig.: obstruction to understanding or perception
Root / Etymology
From καλύπτω (to cover, to hide). The suffix -μα denotes the result of an action, so κάλυμα is the result of covering: "a thing that covers."
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, κάλυμα has a general sense of 'covering,' found in contexts relating to household objects (a cover for a vessel, a lid). In the Septuagint, it may render Hebrew words for veil or covering, particularly in cultic contexts (e.g., coverings for the tabernacle or for the face). In the New Testament (notably 2 Cor 3:13-16), κάλυμα specifically refers to the veil Moses placed over his face, which is used both as a literal object and as a metaphor for a barrier to perception or spiritual insight. English translations often render κάλυμα as 'veil' or 'covering,' but the Greek term is not inherently limited to religious or ceremonial veils. It does not imply a particular fabric or style except as specified by context. Related terms: καλύπτρα (another word for veil, especially for head coverings for women); καλύπτω (to cover).
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from καλύπτω; a cover, i.e. veil:--vail.
Root Family
κάλυμα (kalyma) — covering, veil, concealment, barrier
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G2571-01 |
κάλυμμα | kalumma | N ACC N SG |
veil | a covering | a covering | 4 |
Occurrences in Scripture
4 occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G2571-01 |
2 Corinthians 3:13 | κάλυμμα | kalumma | N ACC N SG |
veil | a covering | a covering |
G2571-01 |
2 Corinthians 3:14 | κάλυμμα | kalumma | N NOM N SG |
veil | a covering | covering |
G2571-01 |
2 Corinthians 3:15 | κάλυμμα | kalumma | N NOM N SG |
veil | a covering | a covering |
G2571-01 |
2 Corinthians 3:16 | κάλυμμα | kalumma | N NOM N SG |
veil | a covering | covering |