King James Version

What Does Colossians 2:3 Mean?

Colossians 2:3 in the King James Version says “In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. In whom: or, Wherein — study this verse from Colossians chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. In whom: or, Wherein

Colossians 2:3 · KJV


Context

1

For I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; conflict: or, fear, or, care

2

That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;

3

In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. In whom: or, Wherein

4

And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.

5

For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. This devastating rejoinder to Colossian heresy declares that all treasures of wisdom (sophia, σοφία) and knowledge (gnōsis, γνῶσις) are hidden in Christ. Apokryphoi (ἀπόκρυφοι, "hidden") doesn't mean concealed from believers but stored up in Christ as in a treasure house. Believers access this unlimited wealth through Christ alone, requiring no mystical techniques or secret initiations.

"All treasures" (pantes hoi thēsauroi, πάντες οἱ θησαυροί) admits no exceptions. Nothing worth knowing lies outside Christ; no valid wisdom or knowledge exists independently of Him. This confronts Greek philosophy claiming autonomous wisdom and Jewish mysticism claiming secret knowledge. Christ contains comprehensive truth—about God, humanity, salvation, morality, meaning, and purpose. Seeking wisdom elsewhere wastes effort pursuing fool's gold when genuine treasure waits in Christ.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Greek philosophy divided into rival schools (Stoicism, Epicureanism, Platonism) claiming superior wisdom. Jewish mysticism explored Merkabah visions and angelic mediators. The Colossian syncretism apparently combined elements from both, promising wisdom beyond simple faith in Christ. Paul's absolute claim—ALL wisdom in Christ—eliminates any basis for supplementing the gospel with philosophical or mystical additions.

Reflection Questions

  1. Where do you seek wisdom and knowledge beyond Christ and Scripture—psychology, philosophy, self-help, mysticism?
  2. What would change if you truly believed all treasures of wisdom and knowledge are in Christ?
  3. How do you respond when teachers claim 'deeper' truths beyond apostolic teaching about Christ?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
ἐν1 of 12

In

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

2 of 12

whom

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

εἰσιν3 of 12

are

G1526

they are

πάντες4 of 12

all

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

οἱ5 of 12
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

θησαυροὶ6 of 12

the treasures

G2344

a deposit, i.e., wealth (literally or figuratively)

τῆς7 of 12
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

σοφίας8 of 12

of wisdom

G4678

wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual)

καὶ9 of 12

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

τῆς10 of 12
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

γνώσεως11 of 12

knowledge

G1108

knowing (the act), i.e., (by implication) knowledge

ἀπόκρυφοι12 of 12

hid

G614

secret; by implication, treasured


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Colossians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Colossians 2:3 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Colossians 2:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Test Your Knowledge

Continue Your Study