2 Corinthians 3:14 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 3:14 mean?

2 Corinthians 3:14 says that many people’s minds were made unable to understand, and even now, when the Old Testament is read, a kind of spiritual “veil” still covers their understanding—this veil is only removed through Christ. The verse explains why some do not grasp the true meaning of the Scriptures until they turn to Jesus.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, explaining why many of his fellow Jews do not recognize Jesus as the Messiah when reading their Scriptures. He uses the image of a “veil” to describe a spiritual barrier that keeps them from seeing the full truth. Paul’s point is that this barrier is taken away only in Christ, meaning that faith in Jesus brings clarity and understanding of God’s message.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 3:14

• νοῦς (nous, G3540): This word means “mind” or “understanding.” Paul is not talking about physical blindness but about a kind of mental or spiritual inability to perceive.
• ἐπωρώθη (epōrōthē, G4456): This word is often translated “blinded” or “hardened.” It suggests a dullness or stubbornness, not just a lack of information but a resistance to understanding.
• κάλυμμα (kalumma, G2571): This is the word for “veil.” Paul uses it as a metaphor for something that hides or blocks spiritual sight, drawing from the story of Moses covering his face.
• ἐν Χριστῷ (en Christō, G5547): This phrase means “in Christ.” Paul emphasizes that the removal of the veil—clear understanding—happens only through a relationship with Jesus.

Why 2 Corinthians 3:14 matters

• 2 Corinthians 3:14 helps explain why some people, even when reading the same Scriptures, do not see the message about Jesus; it is not just a matter of knowledge but of spiritual openness.
• The verse connects to Paul’s larger argument that the new covenant in Christ brings a deeper, unveiled understanding of God’s promises, compared to the old covenant.
• Paul’s use of the “veil” image ties back to the story of Moses in Exodus, helping readers see the continuity and difference between the old and new covenants.