Introduction

Understanding the nuances of Greek words in the Bible can significantly enhance our interpretation of the New Testament and deepen our appreciation of the cultural context in which these texts were written. One such word, ἔνδυμα (endyma), plays a crucial role in passages related to clothing and garments. While the term may seem straightforward, its usage carries layers of meaning, both literal and symbolic, in the ancient world. Clothing in biblical times was not just a practical necessity but also a reflection of one’s identity, status, and relationship with God. Therefore, exploring the word ἔνδυμα provides valuable insights into the societal and spiritual dimensions of the New Testament.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἔνδυμα (endyma) [EN-dy-mah]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb ἐνδύω (endyō), meaning “to put on” or “to clothe.” The root word ἐνδύω itself comes from ἐν (en), meaning “in,” and δύω (dyō), meaning “to enter” or “to sink into.”
• Part of Speech: Noun (neuter, 3rd declension)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• Garment: The primary meaning of ἔνδυμα is “garment” or “clothing,” referring to articles of clothing that are worn by a person.
• Robe: It can also specifically denote a “robe” or a more formal type of clothing, often associated with significant social or religious occasions.
• Attire: In a broader sense, it can mean “attire” or “apparel,” encompassing all types of clothing that one might wear.

Similar Words:

• ἱμάτιον (himation) [hee-MA-tee-on]: Meaning “outer garment” or “cloak,” this word often refers to the primary piece of clothing worn over the tunic, similar to how ἔνδυμα might be used to describe a specific piece of clothing.
• στολή (stolē) [sto-LAY]: Meaning “robe” or “long garment,” στολή typically refers to more formal or ceremonial attire, akin to some uses of ἔνδυμα.
• χλαμύς (chlamys) [khla-MEES]: Referring to a “cloak” or “mantle,” χλαμύς was often worn by soldiers or individuals of higher status, somewhat similar in usage to ἔνδυμα when it implies more than just casual clothing.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: ἔνδυμα is a neuter noun, which follows the third declension pattern in Greek. Its form changes based on case and number to align with the syntactical structure of sentences.
• Linguistic Features: The word’s connection to the verb ἐνδύω emphasizes the act of putting on or donning clothing, highlighting the significance of garments as not just physical coverings but as symbols of identity and role in society.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG describes ἔνδυμα as a general term for “garment” or “clothing,” noting its use in both literal and metaphorical contexts. It emphasizes the word’s role in passages that discuss outer appearances and spiritual readiness, particularly in the parables of Jesus.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s lexicon notes that ἔνδυμα can refer to any type of clothing, from everyday wear to ceremonial robes. It highlights its use in the New Testament to convey messages about preparedness and righteousness, often symbolized through clothing.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon provides a broader classical context, indicating that ἔνδυμα was used to describe various forms of dress in both everyday life and special occasions, reflecting the importance of attire in social and religious settings.

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary focuses on the symbolic implications of ἔνδυμα, particularly in parabolic teachings where clothing represents moral and spiritual states. It also discusses how ἔνδυμα is used to depict the transformation of character, as one “puts on” virtues or righteousness.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s concordance lists ἔνδυμα as “raiment” or “clothing,” and it draws attention to its frequent appearance in discussions of purity and preparation, particularly in parables and teachings related to the kingdom of God.

Scripture References

• Matthew 22:11-12 – “But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes (ἔνδυμα). So he asked, ‘How did you get in here without wedding clothes (ἔνδυμα), friend?’ The man was speechless.”
• Matthew 3:4 – “John’s clothes (ἔνδυμα) were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey.”
• Luke 7:25 – “But what did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing (ἔνδυμα)? Those who wear expensive clothes (ἔνδυμα) and indulge in luxury are in palaces.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἔνδυμα (G1742: endyma)

The Greek word ἔνδυμα (endyma) is a versatile term in the New Testament, primarily referring to garments or clothing. It encapsulates more than just physical attire; in many contexts, it symbolizes spiritual readiness, righteousness, and identity. The significance of ἔνδυμα in biblical texts reflects the broader cultural values of the ancient world, where clothing was an important marker of status, role, and character. Through its various uses in the New Testament, ἔνδυμα reveals deeper theological meanings, especially in passages where it highlights the necessity of being spiritually prepared or clothed in righteousness.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greece, clothing was not just about fashion but also a significant marker of social and religious identity. The word ἔνδυμα often carried connotations of one’s public persona, and wearing the right attire could symbolize one’s moral or spiritual condition.