σκέπασμα

clothing

Definition

Σκέπασμα (skepasma) refers primarily to a covering, specifically clothing or raiment that serves as a protective covering for the body. It denotes the basic material necessities for sheltering oneself from the elements. In its single New Testament occurrence in 1 Timothy 6:8, it is paired with 'food' (diatrophē) to represent the fundamental physical provisions of life. The word emphasizes the idea of a covering for protection and decency, going beyond mere adornment to indicate essential needs.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in 1 Timothy 6:8. It appears in a context of Christian contentment, where the Apostle Paul instructs that having 'food and clothing' (diatrophē kai skepasma) is sufficient for godly living. Its pairing with food establishes it as a core, non-negotiable physical necessity, not a luxury. The usage is didactic and ethical, setting a standard for simplicity and freedom from material anxiety.

Etymology

Σκέπασμα is derived from the verb σκέπω (skepō), meaning 'to cover' or 'to shelter.' It is a noun form indicating the result of the action—'a covering.' Related words include σκέπη (skepē, 'covering, shelter') and the verb σκεπάζω (skepazō, 'to cover'). The root concept is protection from exposure, which naturally extended to clothing as a primary means of covering the human body.

Semantic Range

Theologically, σκέπασμα anchors the biblical principle of contentment and trust in God's provision. In 1 Timothy 6:6-8, it is central to contrasting godliness with gain, teaching that true sufficiency is found in God, not material abundance. Understanding this Greek term highlights that faith redirects concern from accumulating possessions to gratefully receiving basic provisions as gifts from God, fostering a heart free from covetousness and focused on eternal riches.

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, 'clothing' represented a significant basic cost of living and a clear marker of social status. For many, securing adequate clothing was a genuine daily concern. Paul's use of σκέπασμα, emphasizing a simple protective covering, would have challenged cultural norms that valued elaborate dress for displaying wealth and rank. It called believers to find identity and security in Christ, not in their material coverings.

ἱμάτιον (himation, G2440) — a general term for garment or cloak, often an outer garment. Ἐνδυμα (endyma, G1742) — clothing, apparel, often focusing on what is put on. Περιβολή (peribolē, G4018) — a covering or robe, sometimes with a sense of something thrown around one.

Word Details

Scripture References