Lexical Summary peribolaion: Covering, Cloak, Mantle Original Word: περιβόλαιον Strong's Exhaustive Concordance covering, vesture. Neuter of a presumed derivative of periballo; something thrown around one, i.e. A mantle, veil -- covering, vesture. see GREEK periballo NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom periballó Definition that which is thrown around, a covering NASB Translation covering (1), mantle (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4018: περιβόλαιονπεριβόλαιον, περιβολαίου, τό (περιβάλλω), properly, a covering thrown around, a wrapper; in the N. T. 1. a mantle: Hebrews 1:12 (Psalm 101:27 2. a veil (A. V. a covering): 1 Corinthians 11:15. ((From Euripides down.)) The noun περιβόλαιον appears twice in the New Testament. In Hebrews 1:12 the inspired writer quotes Psalm 102 to present creation as something the Son can “roll up like a robe,” underscoring the transience of the universe in contrast to the unchanging Christ. In 1 Corinthians 11:15 the word describes a woman’s long hair, which “is given to her as a covering.” The contexts differ—cosmic renewal versus personal appearance—yet both employ the same term to convey the idea of something that surrounds, envelops, or drapes. Old Testament and Intertestamental Background The Septuagint frequently uses cognate terms for garments, mantles, and veils. Prophets such as Isaiah depict God as clothing Himself in splendor (Isaiah 59:17) and as covering Zion with a garment of salvation (Isaiah 61:10). These texts provide a theological backdrop: coverings symbolize protection, glory, and sometimes judgment. By Second Temple times, veils and mantles also carried social connotations of honor, modesty, and status, themes that resurface in Corinthian worship discussions. Christological Significance (Hebrews 1:12) Hebrews opens by exalting the Son above angels, kings, and creation itself. Quoting the psalm, the author says, “You will roll them up like a robe; like a garment they will be changed”. περιβόλαιον highlights the ease with which Christ can dispose of the present heavens and earth. What seems permanent to humans is merely an outer wrap to Him. The term therefore supports both the deity of Christ and the eschatological hope that He will inaugurate a new heavens and new earth. Ecclesial and Practical Significance (1 Corinthians 11:15) In Corinth Paul addresses propriety in public worship. Long hair functions as a God-given περιβόλαιον, reinforcing headship and gender distinction. Because the covering is “given,” it reflects divine order, not cultural whim. Churches have historically drawn differing applications—ranging from literal veils to principles of modesty—yet the text identifies a creation-rooted symbol meant to honor God and edify the gathered body. Symbolism of Covering in Redemption Scripture often pairs covering language with atonement and righteousness. After the fall, God clothed Adam and Eve with skins (Genesis 3:21). Priests ministered in prescribed garments that signified holiness (Exodus 28). Isaiah foretells believers “clothed with garments of salvation” (Isaiah 61:10). The recurring motif anticipates the white robes of Revelation 7:14, pointing to Christ’s atoning work. Hebrews 1:12 links this redemptive trajectory to cosmic renewal; 1 Corinthians 11:15 applies it to personal discipleship. Historical Interpretation • Patristic era: Tertullian (On the Veiling of Virgins) cited 1 Corinthians 11 to defend literal veiling, viewing the περιβόλαιον as both hair and added cloth. Doctrinal Connections 1. Doctrine of Creation: God assigns meaning to material forms (hair, garments, cosmos). Key Related Scriptures Genesis 3:21; Exodus 28:2; Isaiah 59:17; Isaiah 61:10; Psalm 102:25-27; Matthew 17:2; Revelation 7:14; Revelation 21:1. Ministry Applications • Preaching: Use Hebrews 1:12 to magnify Christ’s unchanging nature; contrast fleeting worldly pursuits with eternal realities. Conclusion Strong’s Greek 4018 paints a vivid picture of coverings—from the majestic mantle of creation in the hands of Christ to the humble adornment of a believer’s hair. Both usages converge on a single truth: what enfolds us—cosmos, culture, or personal appearance—finds ultimate meaning under the sovereign Lordship of Jesus Christ, who clothes His people with salvation and will one day unveil a renewed creation for His glory. Englishman's Concordance 1 Corinthians 11:15 N-GNSGRK: κόμη ἀντὶ περιβολαίου δέδοται αὐτῇ NAS: is given to her for a covering. KJV: her for a covering. INT: long hair instead for a covering is given to her Hebrews 1:12 N-NNS Strong's Greek 4018 |
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