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ἀφανής (aphanēs)

aphanēs

hidden

G0852 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The Greek word aphanēs describes something that is unseen, hidden, or not manifest. It appears only once in the New Testament, in Hebrews 4:13, where it modifies all things as being open and exposed to the eyes of God.

Its meaning derives from a negative prefix combined with a root for visibility, effectively signifying "not visible." In this single biblical instance, the term emphasizes that nothing escapes divine perception; every secret thought and action is laid bare before God, who judges both the living and the dead.

Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word aphanēs means 'hidden' or 'unseen,' yet its single appearance in Scripture flips that idea on its head. In Hebrews 4:13, it tells us that no creature is truly hidden from God’s sight. Every secret thought and private action is laid bare before Him. This might feel intimidating at first, but it is actually a source of deep comfort.

Knowing that nothing is hidden means you do not have to carry the weight of your secrets alone. God sees your struggles, your fears, and your quiet efforts even when no one else does. You are fully known by Him, which allows for complete honesty in prayer. There is no need to perform or hide parts of yourself; He already holds all of it.

This truth invites you into a relationship built on transparency rather than pretense. You can bring your whole self to God, confident that He understands the context of your life. His judgment is just because He sees everything, but His grace is sufficient for what He sees. Rest in the peace of being fully known and fully loved.

How it's translated

How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.

  • hidden1×

Forms in the text

The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.

  • ἀφανὴς1×

Key Verses

  • Hebrews 4:13
    There is no creature that is hidden from his sight, but all things are naked and laid open before the eyes of him to whom we must give an account.

    This verse uses aphanēs to emphasize that nothing escapes divine perception, ensuring that every secret is exposed before God who judges all.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does aphanēs mean in the Bible?

Aphanēs is a Greek word that translates to 'hidden,' 'unseen,' or 'not manifest.' It combines a negative prefix with a root for visibility. In the New Testament, it appears only once to describe how nothing is hidden from God's sight.

Where does the word aphanēs appear?

It appears exactly once in the New Testament, in Hebrews 4:13. The text states that no creature is hidden (aphanēs) from God’s sight, but all things are naked and laid open before Him.

How does knowing nothing is hidden help my faith?

It removes the burden of secrecy and performance. If God already sees your struggles and intentions, you do not need to hide or pretend. This allows for honest prayer and reliance on His grace rather than your own ability to appear perfect.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Hebrews 1 verse
Hebrews 4:13

There is no creature that is hidden from his sight, but all things are naked and laid open before the eyes of him to…