# shadow, shadows, overshadow, overshadowed # ## Definition: ## The word "shadow" literally refers to the darkness that is caused by an object blocking the light. It also has several figurative meanings. * The "shadow of death" means that death is present or near, just as a shadow indicates the presence of its object. * Many times in the Bible, the life of a human being is compared to a shadow, which does not last very long and has no substance. * Sometimes "shadow" is used as another word for "darkness." * The Bible talks about being hidden or protected in the shadow of God's wings or hands. This is a picture of being protected and hidden from danger. Other ways to translate "shadow" in these contexts could include "shade" or "safety" or "protection." * It is best to translate "shadow" literally using the local term that is used to refer to an actual shadow. (See also: [darkness](../kt/darkness.md), [light](../kt/light.md)) ## Bible References: ## * [2 Kings 20:8-9](rc://en/tn/help/2ki/20/08) * [Genesis 19:6-8](rc://en/tn/help/gen/19/06) * [Isaiah 30:1-2](rc://en/tn/help/isa/30/01) * [Jeremiah 06:4-5](rc://en/tn/help/jer/06/04) * [Psalms 017:8-10](rc://en/tn/help/psa/017/008) ## Word Data:## * Strong's: H2927, H6738, H6751, H6752, H6754, H6757, H6767, G644, G1982, G2683, G4639