The Greek word dermátinos, represented by G1193, means made of hide. It is defined as "leathern, of a skin" and appears only 2 times in 2 unique verses in the Bible. It is used to describe a specific article of clothing made from an animal's skin.
The word G1193 is used exclusively to describe the attire of John the Baptist. In both Matthew and Mark, he is depicted wearing a girdle made from this material. Matthew 3:4 states that John had a "leathern girdle" about his loins, and Mark 1:6 similarly describes him with a "girdle of a skin" about his loins. This specific detail is consistently paired with a description of his garment of camel's hair and his diet of locusts and wild honey.
Several related words appear in the same context as G1193, providing a fuller picture of John the Baptist's appearance:
- G2223 zṓnē (a belt; by implication, a pocket:--girdle, purse): This is the specific item, a "girdle," which is described as being leathern in both Matthew 3:4 and Mark 1:6.
- G2574 kámēlos (a "camel":--camel): The "leathern" girdle is worn with a garment made of camel's hair Matthew 3:4.
- G2359 thríx (hair:--hair): This word specifies that John's primary garment was made from camel's hair (Matthew 3:4, Mark 1:6).
- G1742 éndyma (apparel (especially the outer robe):--clothing, garment, raiment): This term refers to John's general raiment made of camel's hair Matthew 3:4.
- G1746 endýō (to invest with clothing (literally or figuratively):--array, clothe (with), endue, have (put) on): This verb describes how John was clothed with these rustic items Mark 1:6.
The use of G1193 to describe a leathern item contributes to the distinct portrayal of John the Baptist.
- An Image of Austerity: The girdle "of a skin," paired with a garment of camel's hair, establishes an image of a rugged and simple lifestyle. This is reinforced by the description of his diet of locusts and wild honey (Matthew 3:4, Mark 1:6).
- Distinctive Apparel: The specific mention of a leathern girdle is a key detail used to define John the Baptist's appearance. It is an element of the rustic clothing that sets him apart at the very start of his ministry as recorded in the gospels.
In summary, G1193 is a highly specific adjective meaning made of hide. Its only scriptural application is to describe the "leathern girdle" or "girdle of a skin" worn by John the Baptist (Matthew 3:4, Mark 1:6). While rare, the word is significant as it works with other details—such as his garment of camel's hair—to create a memorable and defining image of his austere and set-apart life.
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