Brief Overview of ἔσθησις (Strong’s G2067: esthēsis)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is essential in Biblical studies, as it deepens our insight into the meanings and contexts of the Scriptures. The Greek word ἔσθησις (esthēsis) is particularly significant because it refers to clothing or apparel. Its usage in the New Testament provides a glimpse into how clothing was perceived and valued in ancient Greek culture, often carrying symbolic meanings that go beyond mere attire. Recognizing the nuances of ἔσθησις helps in understanding the socio-cultural and spiritual contexts within which Biblical narratives were written.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἔσθησις (esthēsis) [ES-thay-sis]
• Etymology: Derived from the root word ἔσθημα (esthēma), meaning “clothing” or “garment,” related to the concept of covering or dressing.
• Part of Speech: Noun (feminine); third declension.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Clothing: General term for garments or apparel.
• Attire: Refers to specific types of clothing, often used in formal or ceremonial contexts.
• Vestments: May denote clothing associated with religious or significant events.

Similar Words: ἱμάτιον (himátion) [hi-MAH-tee-on] is another Greek word that translates to “garment” or “cloak.” While ἱμάτιον can refer to an outer garment or cloak, ἔσθησις (esthēsis) is a broader term that includes various types of clothing and attire.

Further Insights: ἔσθησις (esthēsis) is a third declension feminine noun in Greek. Below is the full declension chart for ἔσθησις:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἔσθησις is defined as “clothing” or “attire,” highlighting its use in the New Testament to denote garments that symbolize purity or divine status. It points to its usage in describing the appearance of divine or angelic beings.

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Thayer’s: Lists ἔσθησις as “clothing,” “apparel,” or “raiment,” particularly focusing on its metaphorical use in the New Testament, where it often symbolizes spiritual readiness or divine presence.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Focuses on ἔσθησις as meaning “clothing” or “vestments,” noting its relevance in contexts describing heavenly or divine beings, where attire symbolizes holiness or purity.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Lists ἔσθησις as “attire” or “clothing,” providing examples from classical Greek literature where the term is used to describe garments worn in both everyday and formal situations.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἔσθησις as “clothing” or “attire,” emphasizing its appearances in contexts related to heavenly appearances and divine encounters in the New Testament.

Related Scripture References

• Luke 24:4: “While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel [ἐσθήσει].”

This verse highlights the use of ἔσθησις to describe the brilliant attire of the men (angels) who appeared at Jesus’ tomb after His resurrection, symbolizing their heavenly nature and the divine revelation.

Classical Usage

Septuagint Examples:

Summary of ἔσθησις (G2067)

In summary, ἔσθησις (esthēsis) is a Greek noun that generally means “clothing” or “attire.” It is used in the New Testament to describe garments that often have symbolic meanings related to purity, holiness, or divine encounters. The word also appears in classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, providing insight into how clothing was viewed and valued in different cultural and spiritual contexts. Understanding ἔσθησις helps to interpret the spiritual and social messages conveyed through clothing in ancient texts.

Did You Know?

Did you know that ἔσθησις (esthēsis) was often used to describe not just physical clothing but also metaphorical “garments” of righteousness or divine presence in ancient Greek literature? This dual use reflects the layered meanings of clothing in both everyday life and spiritual symbolism.