Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies allows us to grasp the nuances and deeper meanings within the text. The Greek word ἐνδύω (endyō) is one such term that holds significant importance for both New Testament interpretation and the comprehension of ancient Greek culture. Frequently translated as “to put on” or “to clothe,” this word conveys both literal and metaphorical senses, making it vital for passages that discuss spiritual transformation, preparedness, or identity. In both Christian and ancient Greek contexts, ἐνδύω can signify adopting new attributes or preparing oneself for a specific role or task.

Key Information

• Greek Word: ἐνδύω (endyō) [en-DY-oh]
• Etymology: Derived from the root word δύω (dyō), meaning “to sink” or “to enter,” with the prefix ἐν- (en-) meaning “in” or “into,” giving the sense of “entering into clothing.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (middle voice); forms include indicative, imperative, subjunctive, and optative.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• To Put On: Refers to the act of dressing or putting on clothes.
• To Be Clothed: In a metaphorical sense, it often means to be endowed with power, virtue, or qualities.
• To Equip Oneself: Can indicate the idea of preparing or equipping oneself with something, such as armor or attributes.

Similar Words:

• ἐνδύτης (endytēs) [en-DY-tays]: Refers to a garment or clothing item, emphasizing the material object rather than the action of putting it on.
• ἀμφιέννυμι (amphiennymi) [am-fee-EN-nee-mee]: A verb meaning “to clothe” or “to dress,” often used in a more formal or ceremonial context.
• ἐπιβάλλω (epiballō) [ep-ee-BAL-lo]: Literally “to throw upon” or “to put on,” usually referring to an outer garment or an additional layer.

Further Insights:

• Morphology: As a verb, ἐνδύω can appear in various grammatical forms, including middle and passive voices, which can slightly alter its meaning to focus more on the subject or the action’s effect on the subject.
• Notable Linguistic Features: The verb ἐνδύω is often used metaphorically in the New Testament to describe spiritual preparation, such as “putting on” the armor of God or the new self in Christ.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG defines ἐνδύω primarily as “to put on” or “to clothe,” emphasizing its use in both literal and figurative contexts. The lexicon also notes its usage in Pauline literature to signify putting on a new self or character.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s lexicon focuses on the literal sense of the term—“to clothe or dress oneself”—as well as the metaphorical sense of putting on moral or spiritual attributes, such as “putting on the armor of light.”

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon highlights ἐνδύω in classical Greek texts where it is used in both everyday language (to put on clothes) and in metaphorical senses, such as “putting on courage.”

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary explains ἐνδύω in terms of its New Testament application, where it symbolizes the adoption of Christian virtues or the righteousness of God.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s concordance emphasizes ἐνδύω as “to invest with clothing,” pointing out its deeper symbolic meanings in various New Testament passages.

Scripture References

• Ephesians 6:11 – “Put on (ἐνδύω) the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.”
• Colossians 3:10 – “And have put on (ἐνδύω) the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.”
• Romans 13:12 – “The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on (ἐνδύω) the armor of light.”

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐνδύω (G1746: endyō)

The Greek verb ἐνδύω (endyō) is crucial for understanding both the literal and metaphorical language of the New Testament. It conveys the act of “putting on” clothing or armor and is frequently used metaphorically to describe spiritual preparation or transformation. This term is often employed in passages that encourage believers to “clothe themselves” in virtues, divine protection, or Christ’s righteousness. Its relevance extends beyond religious texts, offering insights into ancient Greek culture’s use of clothing as a metaphor for readiness, protection, and transformation.

Did You Know?

In ancient Greek culture, the concept of clothing oneself (ἐνδύω) was not just a practical action but also a significant metaphor for adopting new roles, identities, or virtues. In the New Testament, this idea is extended to the spiritual realm, where believers are encouraged to “put on” not just garments but the very character of Christ, symbolizing a profound transformation in one’s life and conduct.