κρύπτω

I hide, conceal, lay up

Definition

The verb κρύπτω means to hide, conceal, or keep secret. In the New Testament, it describes physically hiding an object, as in the parable of the hidden treasure (Matthew 13:44). It also refers to concealing knowledge or truth, such as when Jesus' words about his death were 'hidden' from the disciples (Luke 18:34). Furthermore, it can signify keeping something safe or stored away, illustrated by the servant who hid his master's talent in the ground (Matthew 25:25). In John's Gospel, it describes Jesus hiding himself from hostile crowds (John 8:59, 12:36).

Biblical Usage

κρύπτω is used 15 times across the Gospels, primarily in Matthew (6 times) and Luke/John. It appears in parables (Matthew 13:44), teachings about revelation (Matthew 10:26), and narratives of Jesus avoiding conflict (John 8:59). A key pattern is its use for things that are temporarily concealed but destined to be revealed, emphasizing God's hidden wisdom or plans that become manifest.

Etymology

Derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *krau- meaning 'to hide, cover.' It is the source of English words like 'crypt' and 'apocrypha.' In classical Greek, it carried the core sense of making something invisible or secret, a meaning retained in the New Testament.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it touches on themes of divine revelation and human responsibility. It describes both God's hidden wisdom (Matthew 11:25) and humanity's tendency to hide from God's light or bury gifts out of fear (Matthew 25:25). Understanding κρύπτω enriches reading by highlighting the biblical tension between what is concealed in God's timing and what He commands to be revealed, ultimately pointing to Jesus as the revelation of what was once hidden.

In a culture where valuables were often buried for safekeeping due to lack of banking systems, the action of 'hiding' a treasure (Matthew 13:44) was a familiar and practical image of securing one's most prized possession. The concept of hiding oneself, as Jesus did, would also resonate in contexts of political or social danger.

καλύπτω (kalyptō, G2572) — to cover or veil, often physically; ἀποκρύπτω (apokryptō, G613) — to hide away, conceal thoroughly; λανθάνω (lanthanō, G2990) — to escape notice, be unaware.

Word Details

Scripture References