σκηνή

a tent, tabernacle

Definition

The Greek word σκηνή primarily means 'tent' or 'tabernacle,' referring to a physical, portable dwelling. In the New Testament, it most famously denotes the wilderness Tabernacle of Moses, the earthly model of God's dwelling (Acts 7:44, Hebrews 8:2). It is also used for Peter's suggestion to build three 'booths' for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah at the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:4, Mark 9:5, Luke 9:33). Figuratively, it extends to mean a temporary earthly dwelling or habitation, as seen in the 'eternal dwellings' of Luke 16:9 and the metaphorical 'tabernacle' of David in Acts 15:16.

Biblical Usage

σκηνή is used 21 times, primarily in Luke-Acts and Hebrews. In the Gospels, it appears literally for a booth (Matthew 17:4) and figuratively for a dwelling (Luke 16:9). In Acts, it refers to the Israelite Tabernacle (Acts 7:44) and the prophetic restoration of David's 'tabernacle' (Acts 15:16). Hebrews uses it theologically to contrast the earthly Tabernacle with the heavenly one (Hebrews 8:2, 9:11). The usage pattern moves from literal tents to rich theological metaphor.

Etymology

Derived from the ancient Greek σκηνή, meaning 'tent,' 'hut,' or 'covered structure.' It is the source of the English word 'scene.' The term was used in the Greek translation of the Old Testament (the Septuagint) to translate the Hebrew 'ohel' (tent) and 'mishkan' (tabernacle/dwelling place), heavily influencing its theological meaning in the New Testament.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it connects God's presence with His people. It points to the temporary, earthly nature of the Old Covenant worship in the Tabernacle, which was a 'copy and shadow' (Hebrews 8:5) of the true, heavenly reality. In Christ, God 'tabernacled' among us (John 1:14, using the related verb σκηνόω), fulfilling the symbolism. It underscores the theme of God's dwelling with humanity, from the wilderness to the eternal city where 'the tabernacle of God is with men' (Revelation 21:3).

In the 1st-century Greco-Roman world, tents were common for travelers, soldiers, and nomadic peoples. For Jewish readers, 'σκηνή' immediately evoked the foundational story of the Exodus and the portable Tabernacle, the center of Israel's worship during their wilderness journey. This cultural memory made it a powerful metaphor for the temporary, pilgrim nature of earthly life and the promise of a permanent dwelling with God.

οἰκία (oikia, G3614) — a house or household, a permanent dwelling. κατασκήνωσις (kataskēnōsis, G2682) — a lodging or nest, emphasizing the act of settling down to dwell. μονή (monē, G3438) — an abiding place, dwelling, or mansion (used in John 14:2), with a stronger sense of permanence.

Word Details

Scripture References