κῆπος

a garden

Definition

Κῆπος refers to a cultivated plot of land, specifically a garden or orchard. In the New Testament, it consistently denotes an enclosed piece of ground used for growing plants, such as the mustard seed garden in Luke 13:19 or the garden where Jesus was arrested (John 18:1). It also refers to a burial garden containing a new tomb, as in John 19:41. The term implies a place of cultivation, separation, and often privacy.

Biblical Usage

The word is used four times in the New Testament, exclusively in Luke and John. In Luke 13:19, it describes a garden where a mustard seed is planted, illustrating the Kingdom of God. In John's Gospel, all three occurrences (John 18:1, 18:26, 19:41) are tied to the Passion narrative, referring to the garden across the Kidron where Jesus was betrayed and the garden containing his tomb, creating a thematic connection between suffering and burial.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek noun κῆπος, meaning 'garden' or 'orchard.' It is a primary word with no clear earlier root, though it may be related to the concept of an enclosed or dug space. Cognates appear in other Indo-European languages, and it is the source of the English prefix 'garden-' in borrowed terms.

Semantic Range

While a common noun, κῆπος gains theological significance in John's Gospel by framing key events of Jesus's passion and resurrection. The garden (Gethsemane) is the scene of betrayal and arrest, linking back to the first garden (Eden) where humanity fell. The garden tomb (John 19:41) then becomes the site of new creation and resurrection, symbolizing redemption and the reversal of the curse. Understanding this setting enriches the typological connection between gardens in Scripture.

In the ancient Mediterranean, a κῆπος was typically a walled or enclosed area for vegetables, fruit trees, or ornamental plants, often associated with a dwelling. It was a place of retreat and provision. This differs from a modern large, open garden; it was a private, cultivated plot. The garden tomb in John 19:41 reflects a custom of wealthy individuals having private burial gardens.

παράδεισος (paradeisos, G3857) — a park or paradise, often grander (e.g., Luke 23:43); ἀγρός (agros, G68) — a field or countryside, more general and open.

Word Details

Scripture References