2 Corinthians 3:15
But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart.
Original Language Analysis
Historical Context
First-century synagogue worship centered on public reading and exposition of the Torah (the Five Books of Moses), Prophets, and Writings. Jesus participated in this custom (Luke 4:16-21), as did Paul (Acts 13:14-15). However, rabbinic interpretation (later codified in the Talmud) developed complex hermeneutical methods that often obscured rather than revealed the Christological meaning of texts. Paul argues that apart from the Spirit's illumination, even the most diligent study of Moses leaves the heart veiled. The solution is not better exegesis but spiritual regeneration.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse warn against reading Scripture academically or religiously without spiritual illumination by the Spirit?
- In what ways might your own heart still be "veiled" when reading certain biblical texts or doctrines?
- How can you cultivate heart-level receptivity to Scripture, not merely intellectual study?
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Analysis & Commentary
But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. Paul emphasizes the tragic present reality: when Moses is read (Greek hēnika anaginōskētai Mōusēs, ἡνίκα ἀναγινώσκηται Μωϋσῆς)—that is, when the Torah is read in synagogue worship—the vail is upon their heart (Greek kalymma epi tēn kardian autōn keitai, κάλυμμα ἐπὶ τὴν καρδίαν αὐτῶν κεῖται). The veil is no longer physical but spiritual; it covers not Moses' face but Israel's heart.
The shift from "minds" (verse 14) to heart (kardia, καρδία) is significant. Biblical "heart" includes intellect, will, and affections—the whole inner person. The veil is not merely intellectual confusion but willful blindness, a hardness of heart that prevents spiritual perception. This echoes Isaiah 6:9-10, quoted by Jesus to explain Israel's unbelief (Matthew 13:14-15; John 12:40). Yet Paul's tone is not triumphalistic but sorrowful—he mourns his kinsmen's blindness (Romans 9:1-3; 10:1) and anticipates future restoration (Romans 11:25-27).