Brief Overview of ἐπενδύομαι (Strong’s G1902: ependyomai)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it reveals the nuances and depth of the original texts. The Greek word ἐπενδύομαι (transliterated as “ependyomai”) is particularly significant because it conveys the idea of “putting on” or “clothing oneself with” something, often metaphorically. This term is essential for interpreting New Testament passages where spiritual or physical “clothing” or “covering” is discussed, providing deeper insights into early Christian thought and the broader cultural understanding of ancient Greek society.

Key Information

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• Greek Word: ἐπενδύομαι (ependyomai) [eh-pen-DYOO-oh-my]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings:
• Composed of ἐπί (epi), meaning “upon,” and ἐνδύω (endyo), meaning “to put on” or “to clothe.” The combined form ἐπενδύομαι means “to put on over” or “to be clothed with.”
• Part of Speech: Verb, Middle/Passive Voice
• Grammatical Details: Present tense, middle/passive voice, first person singular. This verb indicates a continuous or reflexive action of clothing oneself or being clothed.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• “To put on over”
• “To clothe oneself”
• “To be clothed with”
• “To wear over”

Similar Words:
The Greek word ἐνδύω (endyo) [en-DYOO-oh], which means “to put on” or “to clothe,” is closely related to ἐπενδύομαι. While both words imply putting on clothing, ἐπενδύομαι adds the prefix ἐπί (epi), suggesting an additional layer or “putting on over” something already worn. Another related word is περιβάλλω (periballō) [peh-ree-BAL-loh], meaning “to wrap around” or “to clothe,” which implies a more comprehensive covering rather than layering over existing garments.

Further Insights:
As a verb in the middle/passive voice, ἐπενδύομαι reflects an action performed by the subject with a sense of personal involvement or reflexivity. This emphasizes the subject’s engagement in the act of putting on or being clothed. The present tense indicates an ongoing or habitual action, making it relevant in contexts where continuous spiritual or physical “clothing” is emphasized.
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Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
The BDAG lexicon defines ἐπενδύομαι as a verb meaning “to put on over” or “to be clothed with.” It is used in contexts where both literal and metaphorical clothing is discussed, such as spiritual readiness or the covering of divine attributes.

Thayers:
Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐπενδύομαι as “to put on oneself” or “to clothe oneself over.” It highlights the middle voice’s reflexive nature, suggesting an intentional action of covering or adorning oneself with an outer garment.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary categorizes ἐπενδύομαι under verbs of clothing and covering, emphasizing its metaphorical use in New Testament passages where spiritual clothing or preparation is being described.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon provides a broad overview of ἐπενδύομαι, noting it as a verb meaning “to put on over” or “to invest with clothing.” It is used in classical Greek literature to denote both literal clothing and metaphorical adornment or preparation.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists ἐπενδύομαι as a verb meaning “to put on over” or “to clothe oneself.” It is recognized for its use in describing both physical and spiritual clothing, especially in passages encouraging believers to “clothe” themselves with virtues or divine qualities.

Related Scripture References

• 2 Corinthians 5:2: “For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon (ἐπενδύομαι) with our house which is from heaven.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπενδύομαι (G1902)

The Greek verb ἐπενδύομαι (ependyomai) is an important term that captures the idea of putting on or being clothed with something, both literally and metaphorically. Its primary meanings revolve around the concept of layering or covering oneself, making it significant for understanding passages related to spiritual readiness, protection, and divine covering in the New Testament. The verb’s use in 2 Corinthians 5:2 provides a metaphorical example of believers longing to be “clothed” with their heavenly dwelling, reflecting a broader cultural and theological theme in early Christian thought. Understanding ἐπενδύομαι offers readers valuable insights into the nuances of Greek language and culture.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the word ἐπενδύομαι is often used metaphorically in the New Testament to convey the concept of spiritual clothing? In 2 Corinthians 5:2, Paul uses it to express the believers’ desire to be “clothed” with their heavenly bodies, highlighting the rich symbolic use of clothing imagery in early Christian theology.