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κρυφῇ (kruphē)

kruphē

in secret

G2931 · Greek · New Testament · 1 verses

Quick Reference

Language
Koine Greek
Testament
New Testament
Occurrences
1 verses
Root
—

Word Overview

The adverb kruphē simply means "in secret" or "secretly." It appears only once in the New Testament, in Ephesians 5:12. The context is Paul’s instruction regarding the "fruits of darkness," noting that it is a disgrace even to speak of the shameful things done in secret.

This word derives from the root for hiding or concealment (krypeō). Its single usage highlights a specific moral boundary. While secrecy can sometimes be neutral or positive, here it describes actions so hidden they are considered shameful and unworthy of discussion. The text suggests that some deeds are so dark they should remain concealed, yet their very existence is acknowledged as contrary to the light.

Translators consistently render this as "in secret" or "secretly." The brevity of the word contrasts with the weight of the situation it describes. It serves as a stark reminder that certain behaviors are not merely private but fundamentally opposed to the transparency and holiness Paul advocates for in the church.

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

What This Word Means for Your Faith

The word kruphē, meaning "in secret," appears just once in the New Testament, right in the middle of Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. He uses it to describe actions so shameful that even mentioning them brings disgrace. This isn’t about private prayer or quiet reflection, which Scripture encourages. Instead, it points to deeds hidden from view because they are fundamentally opposed to God’s light and truth.

For your daily life, this word offers a clear boundary. It reminds us that some behaviors are not just personal matters but carry a weight of darkness that should not be normalized or even discussed casually. Transparency is a hallmark of Christian community. When we choose honesty over concealment, we align ourselves with the light rather than the shadows.

This single usage highlights a stark contrast between hidden shame and open integrity. It invites you to examine where you might be hiding things that bring no good fruit. By bringing your life into the open, you participate in the freedom and clarity that Christ offers, allowing His truth to shape your relationships and choices.

How it's translated

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

  • in secret1×

Forms in the text

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

  • κρυφῇ1×

Key Verses

  • Ephesians 5:12
    For it is a shame even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret.

    Paul uses this word to define a moral boundary, stating that the shameful deeds of darkness are so vile they should not even be spoken of.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Greek word kruphē mean?

Kruphē is an adverb that means "in secret" or "secretly." It comes from a root related to hiding or concealment. In the New Testament, it describes actions that are hidden from view, often with a negative connotation of shame or darkness.

Where does kruphē appear in the Bible?

It appears only once, in Ephesians 5:12. Paul uses it to describe the "things which are done by them in secret," referring to the shameful acts associated with darkness that are unworthy of even being mentioned.

Is secrecy always bad according to this word?

Not necessarily, but in this specific verse, it carries a strong negative tone. While Jesus taught about private prayer (Matthew 6:6), kruphē here highlights deeds that are hidden because they are shameful and contrary to God’s light. It distinguishes between holy privacy and sinful concealment.

Every Occurrence (1 verses across 1 books)

Ephesians 1 verse
Ephesians 5:12

For it is a shame even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret.