σκήνωμα (skēnōma)
skēnōma
tent
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun skēnōma simply means a tent or a temporary dwelling place. In the Old Testament’s Greek translation, it often translates the Hebrew word for tent, pointing to structures that are movable and impermanent. This sense of a provisional shelter carries over into the New Testament, where it describes physical spaces built for God’s presence.
Stephen uses this term in Acts 7:46 when speaking about David finding favor with God and seeking to build a dwelling place for Him. Here, the word refers to the tabernacle, the portable sanctuary that served as God’s residence among Israel before the temple was constructed in Jerusalem. It emphasizes a location set apart for divine interaction rather than a permanent architectural feature.
Later, Peter uses the word metaphorically in 2 Peter 1:13–14 to describe the human body. He views his physical form as a temporary tent that will soon be taken down. This usage highlights the transient nature of earthly life, contrasting the fragile vessel of flesh with the enduring reality of spiritual existence.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word skēnōma reminds us that our time on earth is a temporary stay. In Acts, it describes the portable tabernacle where God met His people before the temple stood in Jerusalem. This highlights that His presence is not locked inside stone walls but moves with those who seek Him.
Peter later applies this image to his own body, calling it a tent that will soon be taken down. This perspective brings comfort when we feel weary or fragile. Our physical struggles are real, yet they are fleeting compared to the eternal home God has prepared for us.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- tabernacle,1×
- tabernacle1×
- a dwelling place1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- σκήνωμα1×
- σκηνώματός1×
- σκηνώματι,1×
Key Verses
-
II Peter 1:13
I think it right, as long as I am in this tent, to stir you up by reminding you,
Peter uses this term to describe his current body as a temporary dwelling that will soon be left behind.
-
Acts 7:46
who found favor in the sight of God, and asked to find a habitation for the God of Jacob.
Stephen refers to the tabernacle, showing how God’s presence dwelt among Israel in a movable sanctuary before the permanent temple was built.
-
II Peter 1:14
knowing that the putting off of my tent comes swiftly, even as our Lord Jesus Christ made clear to me.
Peter acknowledges that his physical life will end soon, using the tent metaphor to prepare his readers for his impending departure.