### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **γυμνός (gymnós)**, represented by `{{G1131}}`, is a term for **nude**. It appears **15 times** across **15 unique verses** in the Bible. The word is used in both a literal sense, referring to a lack of clothing, and a figurative sense to describe concepts like vulnerability, destitution, and spiritual exposure.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1131}}` is used to describe several key situations. Its literal meaning is evident in passages describing physical need, such as when believers are called to care for the **naked** [[Matthew 25:36]]. It can also denote being only partially clothed, as when Peter, who was **naked**, put on his coat before jumping into the sea [[John 21:7]]. Figuratively, the term illustrates a state of spiritual poverty, as with the church in Laodicea which, despite its earthly wealth, was spiritually **naked** [[Revelation 3:17]]. Furthermore, it signifies absolute exposure before God, with all things being **naked** and open to His sight [[Hebrews 4:13]], and is used to depict the final judgment and shaming of the great whore, who is made desolate and **naked** [[Revelation 17:16]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning of being naked by providing contrast or context:
* `{{G4016}}` **peribállō** (to throw all around, i.e. invest with clothing): This verb describes the direct solution to being naked and is used in Jesus's teaching on caring for those in need, to "clothe" the **naked** [[Matthew 25:38]].
* `{{G3007}}` **leípō** (to leave, i.e. (intransitively or passively) to fail or be absent): This word highlights the state of need associated with nakedness. James describes a brother or sister who is **naked** and also **destitute** of daily food [[James 2:15]].
* `{{G4434}}` **ptōchós** (a beggar... poor): This term is frequently paired with nakedness to describe a state of utter destitution, particularly in a spiritual sense. The Laodicean church was described as wretched, **poor**, blind, and **naked** [[Revelation 3:17]].
* `{{G808}}` **aschēmosýnē** (an indecency... shame): This word points to the consequence of public nakedness, where the one who fails to keep their garments walks **naked** so that others see their **shame** [[Revelation 16:15]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1131}}` is significant, touching on themes of human need and divine accountability.
* **Physical Need and Christian Duty:** The state of being **naked** represents a fundamental human vulnerability. Providing clothing for the **naked** is presented as a core act of righteousness and a direct service to Christ Himself ([[Matthew 25:36]], [[Matthew 25:43]]).
* **Spiritual Blindness:** The term is used powerfully to expose self-deception. The church of Laodicea claimed to be **rich** `{{G4145}}` and in need of nothing, yet was spiritually **wretched** `{{G5005}}`, **poor** `{{G4434}}`, and **naked** [[Revelation 3:17]].
* **Divine Exposure:** Before God, nothing can be hidden. All of creation is described as **naked** and open to Him, emphasizing His omniscience and the certainty of accountability [[Hebrews 4:13]].
* **The Sown Body:** In an agricultural metaphor, the word describes the **bare** grain that is sown, contrasting it with the full body that it will become, illustrating the nature of the resurrected body [[1 Corinthians 15:37]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1131}}` moves beyond a simple description of physical nudity. It serves as a foundational term for understanding human vulnerability and the Christian obligation to provide care [[James 2:15]]. Figuratively, it is a stark symbol of spiritual poverty, the shame of sin [[Revelation 16:15]], and the inescapable reality of divine judgment where all is laid **bare** before the eyes of God [[Hebrews 4:13]]. The word encapsulates a spectrum of meaning, from a literal lack of clothing to a profound spiritual state of exposure.
TRV