Greek · G4639 · unreviewed

σκιά

Shadow

These lexicon entries are being actively developed. If you notice missing content, incorrect definitions, or have suggestions, we'd love to hear from you. Share a note on our Connect page and include a screenshot if helpful.

σκιά G4639
Pronunciation skiá

What does σκιά (skiá) mean in the Bible?

σκιά (skiá) is a Greek word meaning "shadow". σκιά, -ᾶς, ἡ [in LXX chiefly for צֵל, 4Ki. Shows anticipatory nature of the law. This term runs through the canonical themes of Justice, Messiah.

Full entry for σκιά (G4639) · Browse the biblical lexicon

Meaning

shadow
Extended definition

Shadow as mere outline or copy pointing to the substantial reality it represents, especially in Hebrews theology.

1shadow, shade, caused by interception of light: Mrk.4:32, Act.5:15; metaphorically, σ. θανάτου, of ignorance and error, Mat.4:16, Luk.1:79" (LXX) .
2a shadow, the image or outline cast by an object: figuratively, ὑπόδειγμα καὶ σ., Heb.8:5; opposite to σῶμα, Col.2:17; opposite to εἰκών, Heb.10:1.
Source: STEPBible TBESG + Abbott-Smith
Why This Word Matters
Shows anticipatory nature of the law. Colossians 2:16–23
Indicates temporary anticipatory practices fulfilled in Christ. Hebrews 10:1-10
Grammatical Forms

How this word appears across different grammatical cases and numbers.

Nominative · Singular · Feminine Acts 5:15 · Col 2:17
Dative · Singular · Feminine Matt 4:16 · Luke 1:79 · Heb 8:5
Accusative · Singular · Feminine Mark 4:32 · Heb 10:1
Canonical Themes
JusticeMessiah
Biblical Occurrences

Each occurrence shows the passage reference, the original language term as it appears in that context, its transliteration, and the contextual sense.

Appears In

Compound and idiomatic lexemes in which this word is a constituent. Follow a link to study the phrase and its other participating words.

Word Pictures (Robertson)

A.T. Robertson's Word Pictures in the New Testament (1930–31) discusses this term in the following chapters. Open any chapter and go to the Word Pictures tab to read his verse-by-verse commentary.

A.T. Robertson, Word Pictures in the New Testament (1930–31) — public domain

Sources