☀️
← Back to Lexicon
G4637 · Greek · New Testament
σκηνόω
Skenoo
Verb
To Dwell / To Tabernacle / To Pitch a Tent

Definition

The Greek verb skenoo (σκηνόω) means to dwell, live, or pitch one's tent — to tabernacle. It appears 5 times in the NT and is theologically loaded because it echoes the Hebrew concept of God's mishkan (dwelling/tabernacle).

Usage & Theological Significance

John 1:14 contains the most powerful use of skenoo in all of Scripture: 'The Word became flesh and made his dwelling (eskenosen) among us.' The Greek deliberately echoes Israel's wilderness tabernacle where God's glory dwelt. Just as the Shekinah glory filled the tabernacle, the glory of God now tabernacles in human flesh — in Jesus. The incarnation is the ultimate tabernacling. Revelation continues this: 'God's dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell (skenosei) with them' (Revelation 21:3) — the final eschatological tabernacling when God and humanity are reunited forever.

Key Bible Verses

John 1:14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling (eskenosen) among us. We have seen his glory.
Revelation 7:15 He who sits on the throne will shelter (skenosei) them with his presence.
Revelation 21:3 Look! God's dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell (skenosei) with them.
2 Corinthians 5:4 For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling.
Numbers 35:34 Do not defile the land where you live and where I dwell among the Israelites.

Related Words

Study Resources

🌙
☀️