Brief Overview of περιβάλλω (Strong’s G4016: periballo)

Strong’s G4016: A compound verb combining περί (around) and βάλλω (to throw/cast), meaning “to cast around, put on, clothe.” Frequently used in the New Testament for literal clothing and metaphorically for spiritual covering, divine protection, and glorification, particularly in Revelation’s imagery of white robes.

U- Unveiling the Word

Περιβάλλω represents the comprehensive act of clothing or covering someone. As a compound word, it combines the encompassing nature of περί with the decisive action of βάλλω, creating a vivid image of complete covering. In the New Testament, it appears in both literal contexts (putting on clothing) and rich metaphorical usage (being clothed in righteousness, glory, or divine protection). The word carries profound theological significance in Revelation, where white robes symbolize victory, purity, and heavenly reward. Early church writers used it to describe both baptismal robing and spiritual transformation. Today, it continues to express the complete transformation and protection provided by Christ.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: περιβάλλω, periballo, [peh-ree-BAHL-loh]
• Detailed pronunciation: peh-ree-BAHL-loh (stress on third syllable)
• Part of Speech: Verb

Etymology:

• περί (peri-): prefix meaning “around, completely”
• βάλλω (ballo): root verb meaning “to throw, cast”
• Compound formation emphasizes complete envelopment

D – Defining Meanings

• To throw around, wrap around
• To clothe, dress
• To surround, encompass

For compound words: The prefix περί adds “all around” to βάλλω “to throw,” creating the sense of completely covering or enveloping

Translation Options:

1. Clothe – Best for literal and metaphorical clothing contexts
2. Cover – Emphasizes protective aspect
3. Array – Captures ceremonial or dignified dressing

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ἐνδύω [enduo, en-DOO-oh] – “to put on,” emphasizes entering into clothing
• ἀμφιέννυμι [amphiennumi, am-fee-EN-noo-mee] – “to clothe,” more poetic usage
• στολίζω [stolizo, sto-LEE-zoh] – “to array,” emphasizes formal dressing

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Verbal Features:

• Tense: Present, Future, Aorist, Perfect
• Voice: Active, Middle, Passive
• Mood: Indicative, Subjunctive, Participle
• Person: All persons
• Number: Singular, Plural
• Aspect: Ongoing or completed action

Examples: clothe, clothes, clothed, clothing

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes both literal and metaphorical uses. Thayer’s notes its frequent appearance in Revelation. LSJ provides extensive classical usage examples. Vine’s highlights its spiritual significance. Strong’s emphasizes the completeness of the covering. Moulton and Milligan show its common use in everyday contexts.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his glory was [clothed] like one of these.” (Matthew 6:29)

Additional References:
Matthew 25:36, Mark 14:51, Luke 23:11, John 19:2, Revelation 3:5, 7:9, 19:8

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Περιβάλλω powerfully illustrates God’s complete provision and protection. From Jesus’s teaching about God clothing the lilies to Revelation’s white robes, it reminds us that in Christ we are fully clothed in righteousness. This complete covering speaks to the transformative power of the gospel, where King Jesus clothes us in His righteousness and glory.

D – Did You Know?

1. Used 23 times in the New Testament, with 13 occurrences in Revelation
2. Often associated with white garments symbolizing victory and purity
3. Used in early Christian baptismal liturgies for the new garment ceremony

Strong’s G4016: Compound verb expressing complete covering or clothing. Significant in both literal and metaphorical contexts, especially in Revelation’s imagery. Represents divine provision, protection, and transformation through Christ’s righteousness.

Part of speech: Verb

Tags: #Clothing #Covering #Protection #WhiteRobes #Revelation #BiblicalGreek #CompoundVerbs #DivineProvision #Transformation #Righteousness​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​