ἀπόκρυφος

hidden away, secret

Definition

The adjective ἀπόκρυφος means 'hidden away,' 'secret,' or 'stored up.' It describes things that are concealed, not for the purpose of deception, but because they are reserved or not yet revealed. In the Gospels (Mark 4:22, Luke 8:17), it refers to truths that are temporarily hidden but destined to be brought to light, emphasizing God's plan for revelation. In Colossians 2:3, it takes on a profound theological sense, describing the treasures of wisdom and knowledge hidden in Christ Himself.

Biblical Usage

This word is used three times in the New Testament, appearing in parallel passages in the Synoptic Gospels and once in Paul's epistles. In Mark 4:22 and Luke 8:17, it is used in the context of Jesus's parables, describing teachings that are currently concealed but will not remain so. In Colossians 2:3, Paul uses it in a doctrinal statement to describe the inexhaustible, divine wisdom contained in Christ, which is available to believers.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἀπό (apo, meaning 'away from') and the root κρύπτω (kryptō, G2928, meaning 'to hide' or 'to conceal'). It literally means 'hidden away from.' This is the same root from which we get the English word 'crypt' and the term 'Apocrypha' for certain ancient religious writings considered 'hidden' or non-canonical.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects the concept of divine mystery with ultimate revelation. In the Gospels, it underscores the temporary nature of hiddenness in God's kingdom—truth will be fully disclosed. In Colossians 2:3, it points to the central Christian doctrine that Jesus Christ is the very repository of God's wisdom. Understanding this Greek term enriches reading by highlighting that what is 'hidden' in Christ is not lost or secretive, but a stored treasure meant to be discovered by faith.

In the Greco-Roman world, the idea of 'hidden' wisdom or teachings was common in philosophical and mystery religions, where secret knowledge was reserved for initiates. The New Testament usage, however, subverts this by declaring that what was once hidden in God's plan is now being revealed openly through Christ and His teachings, ultimately for all people.

κρυπτός (kryptos, G2927) — more general term for 'hidden' or 'secret,' often describing things concealed from view. μυστήριον (mystērion, G3466) — emphasizes a divine secret or mystery now revealed by God.

Word Details

Scripture References