περιβόλαιον

a wrapper, mantle, veil

Definition

Peribolaion refers to something that is thrown or wrapped around a person, primarily a garment or covering. In its two New Testament occurrences, it carries the sense of a mantle or cloak, a large outer garment. In 1 Corinthians 11:15, Paul uses it metaphorically for a woman's long hair, given to her 'as a covering' (περιβόλαιον). In Hebrews 1:12, it appears in a quotation from Psalm 102:26 (LXX 101:27), where the heavens will be rolled up like a worn-out 'cloak' (περιβόλαιον) and changed.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only twice in the New Testament, in two distinct contexts. In 1 Corinthians 11:15, it is used in a discussion of head coverings and gender roles within worship, where a woman's hair is described as her given περιβόλαιον. In Hebrews 1:12, it is used in a Christological quotation from the Old Testament to illustrate the transient nature of the created universe in contrast to the eternal Son.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition περί (peri), meaning 'around,' and the root related to βάλλω (ballō), meaning 'to throw.' Thus, it literally means 'something thrown around.' It is a neuter noun formed from περιβάλλω (periballō), 'to clothe, to wrap around.'

Semantic Range

The word is theologically significant in both passages. In 1 Corinthians 11:15, it contributes to the complex discussion of creation order, authority, and propriety in worship, linking a woman's hair symbolically to a God-given covering. In Hebrews 1:12, its use in an Old Testament citation applied to Christ underscores His divine sovereignty over creation, which is depicted as a temporary, changeable garment in contrast to His unchanging nature.

In the Greco-Roman world, a περιβόλαιον was a common type of large, enveloping outer garment or cloak used for warmth and protection. Its use as a metaphor in 1 Corinthians 11 relies on cultural understandings of modesty, honor, and gender distinction, where a woman's uncovered head (or short hair) could be seen as shameful. The metaphor in Hebrews draws on the familiar image of folding up and storing or discarding an old cloak.

ἱμάτιον (himation, G2440) — A general term for an outer garment or cloak; περιβόλαιον can be a specific type of himation meant for wrapping. κάλυμμα (kalymma, G2571) — A veil or covering, often with a sense of concealment, used for Moses' veil (2 Corinthians 3:13-16).

Word Details

Scripture References