Introduction
In the study of the New Testament, understanding the original Greek words used by the authors can provide deeper insights into the text’s meaning and the cultural context in which it was written. The Greek word ἔνδυσις (éndysis) is particularly significant as it pertains to the concept of “putting on” or “clothing oneself,” both physically and metaphorically. This term is essential in understanding the spiritual metaphors employed in the New Testament, especially in relation to being “clothed” with virtues or divine attributes. The word also has broader implications in the context of ancient Greek culture, where clothing often symbolized identity, status, and character.
Key Information
- Greek Word: ἔνδυσις (éndysis) [EN-dy-sis]
- Etymology: Derived from the verb ἐνδύω (endýō), which means “to put on” or “to clothe.” The noun form ἔνδυσις refers to the act of putting on or the state of being clothed.
- Part of Speech: Noun (feminine)
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon
Primary Meanings
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- Act of Putting On: ἔνδυσις primarily refers to the act of putting on garments or clothing.
- State of Being Clothed: It can also describe the state of being dressed or adorned, particularly in a figurative sense, such as being clothed with virtues or righteousness.
- Adornment: In some contexts, ἔνδυσις may imply the concept of adornment, not just in the physical sense but also in a moral or spiritual sense.
Similar Words:
- ἔνδυμα (éndyma) [EN-dy-ma]: Another noun related to clothing, specifically referring to garments or attire. While ἔνδυσις emphasizes the act or state, ἔνδυμα focuses more on the garment itself.
- στολή (stolḗ) [sto-LAY]: A word often used for a long, flowing robe or attire, frequently used in more formal or ceremonial contexts, indicating a specific type of clothing rather than the act of dressing.
- χιτών (chitṓn) [kee-TONE]: Refers to a tunic or inner garment, commonly worn in ancient Greek society, representing a basic article of clothing.
Further Insights:
- Morphology: As a noun, ἔνδυσις is in the feminine gender and typically appears in contexts where the action of clothing or being clothed is emphasized. It is a substantive form that encapsulates the verb’s action into a concept or state.
- Linguistic Features: The noun form highlights the result or state of the action described by the verb ἐνδύω. It is often used in a metaphorical sense in the New Testament, symbolizing the spiritual “clothing” of believers with Christ-like qualities or divine protection.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG:
BDAG defines ἔνδυσις as “putting on” or “clothing,” emphasizing its usage in both literal and metaphorical senses. It is noted for its importance in texts discussing spiritual readiness and the adoption of virtues.
Thayer’s:
Thayer’s lexicon describes ἔνδυσις as referring to the “act of putting on,” especially in relation to spiritual contexts where it symbolizes the adoption of a new nature or identity in Christ.
LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides a classical understanding of ἔνδυσις, primarily focusing on the act of putting on clothing or armor, highlighting its use in both everyday and ceremonial language.
Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary highlights the use of ἔνδυσις in passages that emphasize the importance of being clothed with spiritual attributes, such as the “armor of God,” which believers are encouraged to “put on.”
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s concordance lists ἔνδυσις as “a putting on” or “clothing,” underlining its role in describing the spiritual act of adopting virtues or divine protection.
Scripture References
- Ephesians 6:11 – “Put on (ἔνδυσις) the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.”
- Romans 13:14 – “But put on (ἔνδυσις) the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Homer | Iliad | “He completed his ἔνδυσις (clothing) with armor that shone brightly in the sun.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “The act of ἔνδυσις (clothing) oneself in ceremonial garb was a symbol of honor and respect.” |
| Plutarch | Lives | “The ἔνδυσις (clothing) of the hero was done with great care, signifying his readiness for the task ahead.” |
Summary of ἔνδυσις (G1745: éndysis)
The Greek word ἔνδυσις (éndysis) plays a vital role in understanding the metaphorical language of the New Testament, where it often symbolizes the spiritual act of being “clothed” with virtues, divine armor, or the nature of Christ. This noun encapsulates the process and state of “putting on,” whether it be physical clothing or spiritual attributes. The study of ἔνδυσις enhances our comprehension of key New Testament passages, revealing deeper layers of meaning related to spiritual transformation and readiness.
Did You Know?
In ancient Greek culture, the act of putting on clothing, as described by ἔνδυσις, was often associated with preparation for significant tasks, such as going into battle or performing religious rites. This concept is reflected in the New Testament, where believers are encouraged to “put on” virtues and the armor of God, signifying their readiness for spiritual challenges and their new identity in Christ.
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