κοιτών

a bed-chamber

Definition

Κοιτών (koitōn) refers to a bed-chamber or bedroom, a private inner room used for sleeping and rest. In the New Testament, it specifically denotes the private chamber of a king or ruler, as seen in its sole occurrence in Acts 12:20, where it describes the bedroom of King Herod Agrippa I. The term emphasizes privacy and seclusion, often implying a place of intimacy or personal retreat. While it can generically mean a sleeping room, its biblical usage highlights a royal context, distinguishing it from more common words for a bed or sleeping quarters.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Acts 12:20, where it describes the bedroom of King Herod Agrippa I. The context involves political dealings, as Tyre and Sidon seek peace with Herod, and it is noted that he was struck down by an angel in this very chamber. The usage underscores a setting of royal authority and privacy, linking the space to Herod's personal life and divine judgment upon him.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek verb κεῖμαι (keimai), meaning 'to lie down' or 'to be placed,' κοιτών directly relates to the idea of a place for reclining or sleeping. It is a noun form that specifically denotes a room designated for this purpose. Cognates include κοιτάω (koitaō), meaning 'to lie down' or 'to sleep,' and κλίνη (klinē, G2825), meaning 'a couch' or 'bed,' showing a family of words centered around rest and repose.

Semantic Range

Theologically, κοιτών in Acts 12:20 highlights God's judgment in the most private spheres of human life, even a king's bedroom. It reminds readers that no place is hidden from divine oversight, emphasizing themes of sovereignty and accountability. Understanding this Greek term enriches the narrative by contrasting Herod's earthly power with God's ultimate authority, as his death in this intimate space serves as a stark lesson on pride and divine retribution (cf. Acts 12:23).

In ancient Greco-Roman culture, a κοιτών was a private inner room, often in a wealthy or royal household, used for sleep and personal retreat. It symbolized privacy and security, distinct from public areas. For a king like Herod, it represented a place of rest and intimacy, yet in the biblical account, it becomes a scene of divine intervention, showing that cultural notions of safety and seclusion are subordinate to God's will.

κλίνη (klinē, G2825) — a bed or couch, focusing on the furniture itself rather than the room; κοίτη (koitē, G2845) — a bed or marriage bed, often with connotations of sexual relations or rest; ὑπερῷον (hyperōon, G5253) — an upper room or chamber, used for gatherings or lodging, not specifically for sleeping.

Word Details

Scripture References