Kolpos denotes a close bosom-side or receiving space, and in one setting a bay by a shore.

The term most often marks a close bosom-side or location of nearness, as with a disciple beside Jesus and Lazarus with Abraham. It also occurs for receiving an overflowing measure and for a bay with a shore.

1. Close bosom-side or place of nearness · dominant

   In John 13:23, the dative singular form occurs where the APB renders the beloved disciple as reclining in Jesus' “bosom.” In John 1:18 the accusative singular stands in the clause the APB renders “at the father's side,” while Luke 16:22 and Luke 16:23 place Lazarus in Abraham's “bosom.”

   John 13:23John 1:18Luke 16:22Luke 16:23
2. Receiving place for a measured gift · rare

   In Luke 6:38, the accusative singular occurs in the promise that an overflowing measure will be given “into your bosom.” The clause presents this location as the place into which the returned measure is put.

   Luke 6:38
3. Bay by a shore · rare

   In Acts 27:39, the accusative singular occurs where the APB renders a “bay with a shore” into which those on the boat planned to run it.

   Acts 27:39

In the Anselm Project Bible: The APB uses “bosom” in John 13:23, Luke 16:22, Luke 16:23, and Luke 6:38, but renders the John 1:18 clause as “at the father's side” and Acts 27:39 as “a bay.” These renderings confirm the verse contexts rather than supplying a fixed English equivalent.