Veil (Vail)

Hebrews 9:33 And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; 

 

 

Luke 23:45 And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst.

 

Mark 15:38 And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.

 

Hebrews 10:20 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;

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Luke 23

44 And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth^[b] until the ninth hour.

45 And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst.

46 And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.

47 Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.

48 And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned.

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    The veil of the temple, separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, is torn in two "from the top to bottom."

Unveiling the Symbolism:

    The veil represented a barrier between humanity and God's presence.

    This barrier existed because of sin. Humans were separated from experiencing God's full presence due to their transgressions.

A New Path Opens:

    The tearing of the veil signifies a dramatic change.

    Jesus' sacrifice is interpreted as having opened a direct path to God for all believers.

In simpler terms:

    Before Jesus, people couldn't directly access God's presence because of sin. The veil symbolized this separation.

    When Jesus died, the veil tore, signifying that his sacrifice removed the barrier. Now, believers have a direct path to God.

Beyond the Physical Veil:

    The tearing of the veil is often seen as a symbolic event, not just a physical one. It represents a shift in the spiritual realm.
    The barrier between humanity and God wasn't just a physical curtain, but a spiritual consequence of sin.

Different Interpretations:

    While the core message of a direct path to God is widely accepted, interpretations of the torn veil can vary.
    Some see it as a complete removal of the need for intermediaries like priests as practiced in Judaism.
    Others emphasize a more internal transformation, where Jesus' sacrifice allows individuals closer access to God through faith.

Historical Context:

    Understanding the function of the veil in the Jewish temple adds depth. The Most Holy Place symbolized God's presence, and only the High Priest could enter, on the Day of Atonement.

    The tearing of the veil signifies that with Jesus' sacrifice, access to God is no longer limited to a select few, but open to all believers.

Continuing Significance:

    This event remains a powerful symbol for Christians, representing:
        Freedom from sin's barrier: Jesus' sacrifice offers forgiveness and reconciliation with God.

        Direct access to God: Believers can now pray and connect with God personally, through Jesus.

        Equality before God: The tearing down of the veil signifies that all people have equal access to God's grace.

The KJV uses "vail" throughout the Bible.

• Head Covering:
  • Genesis 24:65: "For she had said unto the servant, What man is this that walketh in the field to meet us? And the servant had said, It is my master: therefore she took a vail, and covered herself."
  • Genesis 38:14: "And she put her widow's garments off from her, and covered her with a vail, and wrapped herself, and sat in an open place..." (also Genesis 38:19)
• Veil in the Tabernacle/Temple:
  • Exodus 26:36: "And thou shalt make an hanging for the door of the tent, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, wrought with needlework of divers colours." (similarly in Exodus 36:35)
  • Hebrews 6:19: "Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the vail;" (also Hebrews 9:3)
• Veil of the Temple Rent at the Crucifixion:
  • Matthew 27:51: "And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent;" (similarly in Mark 15:38 and Luke 23:45)

While there aren't quite 10 entries for "vail" itself, here are two additional related references:

• Facial Covering:
  • Exodus 34:33 (This verse mentions Moses putting "a vail on his face")

It's important to note that other words are used for veils in the KJV as well, such as "covering" or "mantle."

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While the verse describes creating a hanging for the entrance of the tent, the KJV translates the word here as "hanging"  rather than "vail."

The word "vail" in the KJV is typically used for something that covers a person's face (like a veil) or separates two spaces (like the veil in the tabernacle separating the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place).

In Exodus 26:36, it's referring to a curtain as the entrance to the tent, not a veil in the traditional sense.

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Hebrews 6:19 (and 9:3) is a great example of where the KJV uses "vail."

In this passage,  the author refers to hope as an anchor for the soul. This hope is described as "entering into that within the vail." Here, "vail" refers to the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place in the tabernacle and later the temple.

This signifies that our hope, through Jesus' sacrifice, has access to the very presence of God, a place previously only accessible to the High Priest.

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 Matthew 27:51 (along with Mark 15:38 and Luke 23:45) is a powerful example of the KJV using "vail."

Here, the verse describes a dramatic event that occurred at the moment of Jesus' death on the cross. The veil of the temple, which separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place, was torn in two "from the top to the bottom."

This event held great symbolic significance. The veil represented the barrier between humanity and God's presence due to sin.  The tearing of the veil signified that Jesus' sacrifice had opened a direct path to God for all believers.

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KJV References to "Vail" in the Bible

I. Head Covering


* A. Sign of Modesty and Respect (Genesis 24:65, Genesis 38:14, Genesis 38:19)

II. Veil in the Tabernacle/Temple

* A. Separating Holy Place from Most Holy Place (Hebrews 6:19, Hebrews 9:3)

III. Veil of the Temple Rent at the Crucifixion (Symbolic Significance)

* A. Barrier Between Humanity and God Removed (Matthew 27:51, Mark 15:38, Luke 23:45)

The veil, a woven, sacred screen,
Once hid the Holiest from our ken.


In woven threads, a truth unseen,
Of human sin, and wrath divine.

A woman's veil, a cloth of grace,
Concealed her face, a modest space.
Respect and virtue in its place,
A silent vow, a hidden face.

But on the cross, a rending sound,
The earth did quake, the veil unbound.
No longer kept on holy ground,
A path to God, at last, was found.

The veil is torn, the hope takes flight,
Through Christ's own blood, a guiding light.
No longer barred from holy sight,
We stand in grace, in love, and light.

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Title: The Torn Veil: A Path to God

Scripture: Matthew 27:51 (also Mark 15:38, Luke 23:45)

Devotion:

Imagine a thick curtain, woven with intricate details, separating you from the most important person in your life. You yearn for connection, for a glimpse of their face, but the barrier remains. This veil, in many ways, represented the state of humanity before Jesus.

Sin had erected a wall between us and God. We were separated from His presence, unable to experience the fullness of His love.

Then, on a rugged hill called Golgotha, a momentous event unfolded. As Jesus breathed His last on the cross, the Bible tells us, "the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom" (Matthew 27:51). This wasn't a mere rip in fabric; it was a symbolic earthquake, a shattering of the barrier that had kept us apart.

The torn veil signifies the transformative power of Jesus' sacrifice. Through His death, He bridged the gap between humanity and God. The sin that once divided us was conquered, opening a direct path to the Father's presence.

Reflection:

    How does the image of the torn veil impact your understanding of your relationship with God?
    Take a moment today to thank Jesus for removing the barrier of sin and opening the door to a deeper connection with God.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross. We are forever grateful for His sacrifice that tore down the veil and opened the way for us to come directly to you. Help us to cherish this gift and live in the freedom and love you offer. Amen.

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Etymology of "Veil"

I. Origin:

    The English word "veil" comes from Middle English (1150-1500 AD).
    It has two possible sources:

        A. Anglo-French: The word was borrowed from Anglo-French, likely influenced by the Old French word "voile."

II. Ultimate Source:

    B. Latin: Both Middle English and Old French trace back to the Latin word "vēla," the plural form of "vēlum."
    "Vēlum" meant "sail, awning, curtain."

III. Deeper Roots (uncertain):

    The Latin word "vēlum" might be derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*u̯eg-s-lo-".

    This root is possibly related to verbs meaning "to weave" in Old Irish and Old English.

IV. Development in English:

    The verb form "veil" appeared in Middle English around the 14th century, likely derived from the noun.

V. Additional Notes:

    While "veil" is commonly used for head coverings, the original Latin meaning encompassed broader concepts of covering and concealment.

 

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 Etymology of "Veil" - A Deeper Look

I. Borrowing and Doublets:

    "Veil" entered Middle English through two possible routes:

        A. Anglo-French influence: This is the more likely source. The Old French word "voile" meant "sail, veil, shroud" and was borrowed into Anglo-French, eventually influencing Middle English "veil."

        B. Direct Latin borrowing: Less likely, but possible that "veil" came directly from the Latin "vēlum."

II. Latin Roots:

    The key source is the Latin word "vēlum," the plural form of "vēlum" (singular). "Vēlum" had a wider range of meanings than the modern English "veil":

        "Sail": This was likely the original meaning, referring to the fabric used on ships.
        "Awning": A cloth covering used for shade or protection.
        "Curtain": A fabric used to separate or conceal something.

III. Proto-Indo-European Connections (Speculative):

    The Latin word "vēlum" might be derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "*u̯eg-s-lo-". This reconstruction is uncertain, but it suggests a deeper connection to the act of weaving.
    Possible cognates (related words) based on this root include:
        Old Irish "-fig-": meaning "weaves"
        Old English "wēoce": meaning "wick" (a woven material used in lamps)

IV. Semantic Development:

    The original Latin meaning of "vēlum" encompassed a broader concept of covering and concealment.
    Over time, the meaning narrowed in English to focus specifically on head coverings or things that obscure or hide something partially.

V. Additional Notes:

    The verb form "veil" appeared in Middle English around the 14th century, likely derived from the noun.
    "Veil" has numerous figurative uses beyond physical coverings, such as "a veil of secrecy" or "a veil of ignorance."

    There was another Middle English word for "veil," "scleire" or "slyre" (related to German "Schleier"). This term was eventually displaced by "veil."

Etymology of Words Related to "Veil"

1. Velarium:

    Origin: Shares the same root as "veil," coming from the Latin word "vēlum" (plural form).

    Meaning: In Latin, "vēlum" meant "sail, awning, curtain." "Velarium" is a derivative noun specifically referring to an awning.

    Development: The Latin "vēlum" likely influenced the creation of "velarium" sometime in the classical period (753 BC to 476 AD). There's no clear record of when "velarium" entered English, but its usage likely began sometime in the 16th or 17th century as a borrowing from Latin.

2. Reveal:

    Origin: While not directly related to "veil" in terms of its root, "reveal" shares a common ancestor with "relieve." Both come from the Latin verb "levare" meaning "to lift, raise up."

    Development: "Reveal" entered Middle English around the 14th century. It was formed by combining the Latin verb "levare" with the prefix "re-" (meaning "back" or "again") and the suffix "-al" (meaning "having to do with"). Essentially, "reveal" means "to lift up again" or "to uncover something that was hidden."

Word    Origin    Meaning
Veil    Latin "vēlum"    To cover, conceal (especially with fabric)
Velarium    Latin "vēlum" (derivative)    An awning
Reveal    Latin "levare" (not directly related to "veil")    To uncover something hidden

Additional Notes:
  

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"Reveal" is a great example of how prefixes and suffixes can significantly alter a word's meaning,

 even if it doesn't share the same root as a related word like "veil."

Here's a breakdown of how "reveal" illustrates this concept:

    Root: "Reveal" comes from the Latin verb "levare" which means "to lift" or "to raise up."
    Transformation:

        Prefix "re-": This prefix adds the meaning of "back" or "again" to the root.
        Suffix "-al": This suffix signifies "having to do with" or "of the nature of."
    New Meaning: By combining these elements, "reveal" takes the concept of lifting something and applies it to uncovering something hidden. It literally translates to "to lift up again" in this context.

Even though "reveal" doesn't directly connect to the Latin root of "veil" ("vēlum" meaning "to cover"), it demonstrates the power of word formation through prefixes and suffixes.  They can create entirely new words with distinct meanings from their original roots.

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A Journey Through Cultures: The History and Symbolism of Veils

The veil, a piece of fabric used for covering, has transcended its practical purpose to become a powerful symbol across cultures and throughout history. Let's explore some fascinating examples:

3. Islamic World:

    Head coverings: The most well-known examples include the hijab (headscarf), niqab (face veil), and burqa (full-face veil).

   
Symbolic Significance:

    Modesty: Primarily associated with modesty and respecting religious teachings.
    Religious Identity: A symbol of faith and cultural affiliation.
    Personal Choice: For some women, it represents personal agency and empowerment.

4. Europe (Medieval to Modern):

    Medieval Period: Women of nobility wore veils for social distinction and modesty.
    Victorian Era: Veils were used as a fashion statement and symbol of femininity.
    Modern Europe: Veiling practices have largely declined, except for specific religious occasions.

Symbolic Significance:

    Social Status: During certain periods, veils denoted social class and wealth.
    Fashion and Femininity: In some eras, veils were a fashionable accessory.
    Mourning: Veils were traditionally worn by widows as a sign of grief.

a closer look at the hijab, niqab, and burqa:

1. Hijab:

    Description: A headscarf that covers the hair, neck, and sometimes part of the forehead. Styles and materials vary widely.

    Significance: The most common head covering in Islam, primarily associated with modesty and following religious teachings.

    Interpretation: Voluntary for many Muslims, but mandatory in some interpretations of Islamic law.

    Global Prevalence: Worn by Muslim women across the world, with varying levels of social pressure or expectation.

2. Niqab:

    Description: A face veil that covers the entire face except for the eyes.

    Significance: Less common than the hijab, the niqab is also associated with modesty and religious devotion.

    Interpretation: Highly debated within Islam, with some scholars considering it obligatory and others not.

3. Burqa:

    Description: A full-face veil that covers the entire face, often with a mesh screen over the eyes for visibility. May also cover the body entirely.

    Significance: The least common of the three, the burqa is associated with strictest interpretations of modesty and social segregation.

    Interpretation: Highly debated and not mandatory in mainstream Islam.

Important Points:

   

Atonement in Christianity: Reconciliation Through Sacrifice

In Christianity,

 atonement refers to the concept of how humanity's estrangement from God due to sin is reconciled. It's the bridge between a holy God and sinful humanity, achieved through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

The Problem of Sin:

    The core belief is that humanity is inherently sinful, meaning we fall short of God's perfect standard.

    This sin creates a separation between us and God, hindering a direct relationship.

The Need for Reconciliation:

    Christians believe God desires a relationship with humanity, but this requires overcoming the barrier of sin.
    

Atonement addresses this need, offering the possibility of reconciliation and forgiveness.

The Role of Jesus:

    Jesus, being both fully human and fully divine, is seen as the perfect sacrifice for humanity's sin.
    His death on the cross is considered the ultimate act of atonement, a demonstration of God's love and justice.

Different Theories of Atonement:

    There are various interpretations of how Jesus' sacrifice accomplishes atonement. Here are a few main views:
        Substitutionary Atonement: Jesus takes the place of humanity, suffering the punishment for sin that we deserved.
        Ransom Theory: Jesus' sacrifice acts as a ransom paid to Satan to free humanity from sin's bondage.
        Moral Influence Theory: Jesus' life and sacrifice provide a powerful example of love and forgiveness, inspiring humanity to turn away from sin.

Consequences of Atonement:

    Through atonement, Christians believe they gain:
        Forgiveness of sin: Jesus' sacrifice allows for the removal of the guilt and penalty associated with sin.
        Reconciliation with God: The barrier is removed, allowing believers to have a restored relationship with God.
        Eternal life: Atonement opens the way for salvation and eternal life with God.

Significance of Atonement:

    Atonement is a central belief in Christianity, offering hope and forgiveness.
    It emphasizes God's love and initiative in reaching out to humanity
    It provides a foundation for Christian ethics and morality.

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Theological and Philosophical Implications of Atonement


Theological Implications:

    Justice vs. Mercy: Atonement grapples with how God, who is perfectly just, can also be merciful and forgiving of human sin.

    Universal Salvation vs. Predestination: Does Jesus' sacrifice offer salvation to all, or is it predetermined for a chosen few?

    Nature of Sin and Sacrifice: What exactly constitutes sin, and how does Jesus' sacrifice address it? Is suffering necessary for atonement?

Philosophical Implications:

    Free Will vs. Divine Will: Does atonement contradict free will, as Jesus' sacrifice seems preordained?
    The Problem of Evil: If God is all-loving and all-powerful, why did sin exist in the first place?
    Universality of Salvation: Can atonement apply universally, or is it specific to Christianity?

    Meaning and Purpose: Atonement can offer a sense of purpose and meaning in life, by highlighting God's redemptive plan. 

 

Theological Debates Surrounding Atonement Throughout Christian History

The concept of atonement has been a central, yet debated, topic within Christianity since its earliest days. Here's a glimpse into some of the key debates that have unfolded throughout history:

Early Church (1st-5th Centuries AD):

    Christological Debates: Early Christians wrestled with the nature of Jesus (fully God, fully human, or both?).

   

    Recapitulation Theory: Irenaeus also proposed this view, suggesting Jesus recapitulates (redoes) Adam's life, but perfectly, to reverse the effects of the fall.

Medieval Period (5th-15th Centuries AD):

    Substitutionary Atonement: Anselm of Canterbury (11th century) developed a highly influential theory. He argued that sin creates a debt owed to God and Jesus' sacrifice serves as a perfect substitute, satisfying God's justice and allowing for forgiveness.

        Protestant Reformation: Reformers like Martin Luther emphasized justification by faith alone, achieved through Jesus' sacrifice. They saw atonement as God's act of restoring humanity's relationship with Him.

    Debate on the Nature of the Atonement: Different interpretations emerged within Protestantism. Puritans emphasized the penal substitution model, while others stressed the moral influence and relational aspects.

 

Ongoing Debates:

    Universal Salvation vs. Limited Atonement: Does Jesus' sacrifice offer salvation to all, or is it limited to the elect?

    Role of Ritual and Sacrifice: How does atonement relate to historical practices of animal sacrifice and ritual offerings?

    Reconciling Justice and Mercy: How can God be both perfectly just and merciful in offering forgiveness through atonement?

        Recapitulation Theory: Jesus' life as a perfect redo of Adam's, reversing the fall.

II. Medieval Period (5th-15th Centuries AD):

    Focus: Development of contrasting atonement theories.

    Key Figures: Anselm of Canterbury, Abelard

    Theories:
        Substitutionary Atonement (Anselm): Sin creates a debt to God, Jesus' sacrifice pays it.
      
    Theories:

        Justification by Faith: Achieved through Jesus' sacrifice, restoring humanity's relationship with God.

        Debates within Protestantism: Penal substitution vs. moral influence and relational aspects.

V. Ongoing Debates:

    Universal Salvation vs. Limited Atonement

    Role of Ritual and Sacrifice

    Reconciling Justice and Mercy