Strong’s G4746: A layer of leaves, straw, or branches used for bedding or spreading on paths. From the root meaning “to tread upon.” Significant in the triumphal entry narrative, where people spread branches before Jesus, symbolizing honor and royal recognition.

U- Unveiling the Word

Στιβάς refers to leafy branches or straw that were spread on the ground, particularly as temporary bedding or to create an honorable path. In the New Testament, it appears specifically during Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, where people spread branches on the road before Him, recognizing His royal status as the Messiah. This act paralleled ancient Near Eastern customs of honoring kings by covering their path. Early church fathers saw deep significance in this gesture, interpreting it as both the fulfillment of messianic prophecy and a prefiguring of how all creation will bow before the King of kings. Today, this word reminds us of our call to honor Jesus as King and prepare the way for His presence in our lives.

N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: στιβάς, stibas, /stee-bas’/
• Detailed Pronunciation: STEE-bahs (emphasis on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Noun

Etymology:

• Root word: στείβω (steibō) – meaning “to tread, stamp, or pack down”
• -άς (-as) – nominal suffix indicating the result of an action
  The combination suggests material that has been or will be trodden upon.

D – Defining Meanings

• Leafy branches spread on the ground
• Straw or plant material used for bedding
• Material spread on paths to create an honorable way

For compound words: Not applicable as στιβάς is a simple noun.

Translation Options:

1. “Branches” – Emphasizes the material used in the triumphal entry
2. “Leafy beds” – Highlights its use as bedding material
3. “Spread foliage” – Captures both the material and its purposeful placement

E – Exploring Similar Words

1. κλάδος (klados) /kla’-dos/ – branch cut from a tree, more specific to tree branches. See G2798
2. βαΐον (baion) /bah-ee’-on/ – palm branch, specifically palm fronds. See G902
3. φύλλον (phyllon) /fool’-lon/ – leaf, more general term for foliage. See G5444

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a noun, στιβάς exhibits these features:

• Case: Nominative/Accusative
• Number: Singular/Plural
• Gender: Feminine
• Declension: Third

Examples of morphological changes:

• Singular: στιβάς (nominative), στιβάδος (genitive), στιβάδι (dative), στιβάδα (accusative)
• Plural: στιβάδες (nominative), στιβάδων (genitive), στιβάσι(ν) (dative), στιβάδας (accusative)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its use in creating honorable pathways. Thayer’s notes its connection to temporary bedding. LSJ documents its use in classical literature for both bedding and ceremonial purposes. Vine’s highlights its significance in the triumphal entry. Strong’s connects it to the concept of treading. Moulton and Milligan note its common use in everyday contexts for bedding material.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First Appearance:

“And many spread their coats on the road, and others spread leafy branches [στιβάς] which they had cut from the fields.” Mark 11:8

Additional References:
This is the only occurrence in the New Testament.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Στιβάς beautifully captures the reverence and honor due to our King Jesus. Just as the people of Jerusalem spread branches before Him, recognizing His royal authority, we too are called to prepare the way for His presence in our lives and communities. This word reminds us that true worship involves both recognition of His kingship and practical acts of honor.

D – Did You Know?

1. The practice of spreading branches was common in ancient victory celebrations and royal processions.
2. The word’s connection to bedding material suggests the idea of making a place ready for someone important.
3. The use of στιβάς in Mark’s Gospel is unique among the Gospel accounts of the triumphal entry.

Strong’s G4746: A layer of leaves, straw, or branches used for bedding or spreading on paths. From the root meaning “to tread upon.” Significant in the triumphal entry narrative, where people spread branches before Jesus, symbolizing honor and royal recognition.

Part of speech: Noun

Tags: triumphal-entry, branches, honor, kingship, worship, preparation, royal-procession, messianic-prophecy, palm-sunday, greek-noun​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​