κόλπος

bosom, bosom of a garment, a bay, gulf

Definition

The Greek word κόλπος (kolpos) primarily means 'bosom' or 'lap,' referring to the chest area where one could hold something close, like a child (Luke 16:22). It also denotes the fold of a garment above the belt, which functioned as a pocket for carrying items (Luke 6:38). In a geographical sense, it can mean a 'bay' or 'gulf,' as seen in Acts 27:39, where it describes a coastal inlet. Figuratively, it expresses intimate closeness and privileged position, especially in John's Gospel where Jesus is described as being 'in the bosom of the Father' (John 1:18) and the beloved disciple reclining 'in the bosom of Jesus' (John 13:23).

Biblical Usage

In the New Testament, κόλπος is used six times across Luke, John, and Acts. In Luke, it appears in parables and teachings: describing the 'bosom of Abraham' as a place of blessed repose (Luke 16:22-23) and the generous measure given 'into your bosom' (Luke 6:38). John uses it twice to depict profound intimacy: between the Father and the Son (John 1:18) and between Jesus and the beloved disciple at the Last Supper (John 13:23). In Acts, it has a literal, geographical meaning for a bay (Acts 27:39).

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek κόλπος, meaning a hollow, fold, or cavity. It is a primary word with cognates in other Indo-European languages. Its core idea is of a curved or enclosed space, which naturally extended to meanings like the bosom (a bodily hollow), the fold of a garment (a created hollow), and a bay (a geographical hollow).

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it vividly conveys concepts of intimate relationship, divine revelation, and eschatological comfort. The phrase 'in the bosom of the Father' (John 1:18) underscores the Son's unique, intimate knowledge of God and His role as the perfect revealer. The 'bosom of Abraham' (Luke 16:22) symbolizes the place of blessed fellowship and peace for the righteous dead in Jewish thought, enriching our understanding of interim states. Understanding κόλπος deepens appreciation for the imagery of closeness, security, and privileged communion in Scripture.

In the ancient Mediterranean world, reclining at meals was common, and leaning on someone's bosom was a sign of close friendship and trust (John 13:23). The 'bosom of the garment' was a practical pocket for carrying grain, money, or other items, making the imagery in Luke 6:38 about generous measure very tangible. The phrase 'bosom of Abraham' draws from Jewish tradition, picturing Abraham welcoming the faithful into a place of comfort and fellowship after death.

στῆθος (stēthos, G4738) — refers more specifically to the chest or breast as a body part, without the connotation of a fold or pocket. ἀγκάλη (ankalē, G43) — means the bent arm or embrace, focusing on the act of holding rather than the location.

Word Details

Scripture References