προσκεφάλαιον
proskephálaion
G4344 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A support for the head, specifically a cushion or pillow used to rest one's head upon. In its primary sense, denotes any object placed under or against the head to provide comfort or elevation, particularly during rest or sleep. In literary and documentary contexts, may refer to various kinds of headrests, including makeshift cushions or structured supports.
Semantic Range
pillow, cushion, headrest, support for the head, improvised head cushion
Root / Etymology
From πρός ('toward, for') and κεφαλή ('head'), thus meaning 'something for the head.' The compound formation directly expresses its function as a head support. No evidence for usage outside Koine Greek; formation follows productive Greek compounding patterns.
Historical & Contextual Notes
προσκεφάλαιον is an exceedingly rare word in Greek, attested in the New Testament (notably Mark 4:38) and select later Koine sources. Its use reflects ordinary domestic or travel settings, referencing a headrest used by reclining individuals. The word appears formally for objects analogous to a modern pillow but may also refer to a folded garment, leather cushion, or similar item, depending on context. In the LXX and earlier Greek, other terms like προσκεφάλιον or simply κεφαλή or ἀνακεφαλαίωμα may be used for head-supports. English translations typically render προσκεφάλαιον as 'pillow,' but the sense is broader, encompassing any kind of head cushion, often less luxurious than a modern pillow. No strong religious or ritual connotation attaches to the term; it is mundane and practical in nature.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
neuter of a presumed compound of πρός and κεφαλή; something for the head, i.e. a cushion:--pillow.
Root Family
προσκεφάλαιον (proskephalaion) — head, head-rest, cushion
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4344-01 |
προσκεφάλαιον | proskephalaion | N ACC N SG |
cushion | a head-cushion | head-cushion | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4344-01 |
Mark 4:38 | προσκεφάλαιον | proskephalaion | N ACC N SG |
cushion | a head-cushion | head-cushion |