# veil, veiled, unveiled

## Definition:

The term “veil” usually refers to a thin piece of cloth that is used as a head covering, to cover the head or face so that it cannot be seen.

* Moses covered his face with a veil after he had been in the presence of Yahweh, so that the brightness of his face would be hidden from the people.
* In the Bible, women wore a veil to cover their head, and often their face as well, when they were in public or in the presence of men.
* The verb to “veil” means to cover something with a veil.
* In some English versions, the word “veil” is used to refer to the thick curtain that covered the entrance into the most holy place. But “curtain” is a better term in that context, since it refers to a heavy, thick piece of cloth.

## Translation Suggestions

* The term “veil” could also be translated as “thin cloth covering” or “cloth covering” or “head covering.”
* In some cultures, there may already be a term for a veil for women. It may be necessary to find a different word when it is used for Moses.

(See also: [Moses](../names/moses.md))

## Bible References:

* [2 Corinthians 3:12-13](rc://en/tn/help/2co/03/12)
* [2 Corinthians 3:16](rc://en/tn/help/2co/03/16)
* [Ezekiel 13:18](rc://en/tn/help/ezk/13/18)
* [Isaiah 47:1-2](rc://en/tn/help/isa/47/01)
* [Song of Songs 4:3](rc://en/tn/help/sng/04/3)

## Word Data:

* Strong’s: H4304, H4533, H4555, H6777, H6809, H7196, H7479, G03430, G25710, G25720