Description and usage
The guest room was a place of temporary lodging for a person away from home, usually in the home of another.
Translation
In MRK 14:14 and LUK 22:11 the Greek word kataluma refers to a large room that could serve as a dining room. Many translations have “guest room” (RSV, NCV). Others have simply “room” (GNT) or “place.” It is also possible simply to place Jesus’ question at the end of these verses by saying “Where is it that I am to eat the Passover meal with my disciples?” or “Where am I to eat …?” The next verse after each of these verses provides a description of the room.
It is also possible that the Greek word xenia in both New Testament passages is an abstract noun that refers to hospitality or the activity involved in receiving a guest. This is the more common meaning of xenia, but it fits less well in the two contexts in which it occurs.