WHITED SEPULCHER Meaning and
Definition
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Whited sepulcher:
The term "whited sepulcher" is a metaphorical expression that refers to someone or something appearing outwardly righteous or virtuous but concealing inner wickedness or corruption. It stems from the biblical verse found in Matthew 23:27: "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchers, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness."
The phrase suggests a false facade or pretense of goodness that hides an evil or deceitful nature. A sepulcher typically symbolizes a tomb or burial place associated with death, and "whited" emphasizes its appearance as bright or clean, suggesting purity or righteousness. However, the phrase makes it clear that the supposed purity is a mere illusion, as the inner contents are repulsive and corrupt.
The term "whited sepulcher" is often used to criticize individuals or institutions that present themselves as virtuous, honorable, or morally upright but are actually morally bankrupt or morally compromised. It typically implies a stark contrast between one's outward image and their true intentions or actions. Consequently, the expression highlights the importance of sincerity, authenticity, and integrity, warning against being deceived by appearances and advocating for honest and genuine conduct.
Common Misspellings for WHITED SEPULCHER
- qhited sepulcher
- ahited sepulcher
- shited sepulcher
- ehited sepulcher
- 3hited sepulcher
- 2hited sepulcher
- wgited sepulcher
- wbited sepulcher
- wnited sepulcher
- wjited sepulcher
- wuited sepulcher
- wyited sepulcher
- whuted sepulcher
- whjted sepulcher
- whkted sepulcher
- whoted sepulcher
- wh9ted sepulcher
- wh8ted sepulcher
- whired sepulcher
Etymology of WHITED SEPULCHER
The phrase "whited sepulcher" comes from the Bible, specifically from the Gospel of Matthew in the New Testament. In Matthew 23:27-28, Jesus uses this metaphor to denounce the Pharisees, religious leaders who appeared righteous on the surface but were corrupt inwardly. The phrase is derived from two words:
1. "White": In this context, "white" represents the appearance of cleanliness and purity. It symbolizes the outwardly righteous and virtuous façade that the Pharisees portrayed.
2. "Sepulcher" or "sepulchre": This refers to a tomb or burial place. In biblical times, sepulchers were often painted white on the outside to present an illusion of cleanliness and reverence.
Thus, the combined phrase "whited sepulcher" signifies an individual or thing that presents an outward appearance of purity, but conceals inner corruption or hypocrisy.
Similar spelling word for WHITED SEPULCHER
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