middle voice from ἐν and (to gird); to engirdle oneself (for labor), i.e. figuratively (the apron as being a badge of servitude) to wear (in token of mutual deference):--be clothed with.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb `{{G1463}}` enkombóomai is a compound word derived from the preposition en (in, on) and a form related to komboō (to tie, bind). The base definition given is "to engirdle oneself (for labor)," specifically in the middle voice, indicating an action performed by the subject upon themselves. The core imagery is that of tying on a garment, particularly an apron, which served as a badge of servitude or readiness for work. This literal sense then extends figuratively to "clothe oneself with" a particular quality, implying a deliberate act of assuming a disposition. The nuance of the apron as a symbol of humble service or mutual deference is critical to understanding its sole New Testament usage. Unlike a simple garment, the apron signifies a specific posture of readiness for menial, often dirty, work.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb `{{G1463}}` enkombóomai appears only once in the New Testament, in [[1 Peter 5:5]]. The verse reads: "Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for 'God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.'"
In this context, Peter exhorts believers, particularly the younger among them, to adopt a posture of mutual submission. The command "be clothed with humility" (tapeinophrosynē) employs the vivid imagery of enkombóomai. This is not merely a suggestion to *feel* humble but to *put on* humility as one would an outer garment or, more specifically, an apron of service. The choice of enkombóomai over more general verbs for "clothing" (like `{{G1746}}` endyō or `{{G4016}}` periballō) is significant. It evokes the image of a servant tying on an apron before performing a task, perhaps reminiscent of Christ's act of girding himself with a towel before washing the disciples' feet in [[John 13:4-5]]. This specific imagery underscores humility as an active, visible, and deliberate posture of readiness for service to others, rather than a passive internal state. It is an outward manifestation of an inward spiritual disposition, essential for harmonious community life.
### Related Words & Concepts
`{{G1463}}` enkombóomai is semantically linked to several concepts:
* **Girding/Tying:** Words like `{{G2224}}` zōnnymi (to gird) or `{{G328}}` anazōnnymi (to gird up) share the literal sense of preparing oneself for action by securing clothing. However, enkombóomai adds the specific nuance of the garment being an "apron of service."
* **Clothing/Putting On:** Verbs such as `{{G1746}}` endyō (to put on, clothe) and `{{G4016}}` periballō (to throw around, clothe) are general terms for wearing clothes. enkombóomai is more specific, implying a particular type of garment (the apron) and the associated symbolic meaning of service or humility. When endyō is used metaphorically (e.g., "put on Christ" or "put on the new man"), it often signifies identification or transformation; enkombóomai emphasizes the active adoption of a *posture* for service.
* **Humility:** The noun `{{G5012}}` tapeinophrosynē (humility, lowliness of mind) is the quality with which believers are to be "clothed." Its verb form, `{{G5013}}` tapeinoō (to humble, abase), describes the act of humbling oneself. enkombóomai visually expresses this spiritual reality.
* **Service/Deference:** The concept of `{{G1248}}` diakonia (service) and the role of a `{{G1249}}` diakonos (servant) are implicitly connected, as the apron is a symbol of servanthood. The "token of mutual deference" in the definition highlights the reciprocal nature of this humility within the community.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of `{{G1463}}` enkombóomai in [[1 Peter 5:5]] imbues it with profound theological weight. It elevates humility from a mere virtue to an active, visible commitment, a "garment" that believers must intentionally "put on."
1. **Active Humility:** This word choice emphasizes that humility is not a passive feeling but a deliberate, outward posture. It is a choice to assume the role of a servant, much like physically tying on an apron for work.
2. **Christological Echo:** The imagery powerfully resonates with Christ's example of humble servanthood, particularly His act of washing the disciples' feet in [[John 13]]. While a different verb for "girding" is used there (`{{G2224}}` zōnnymi), the *spirit* of taking on the attire and posture of a lowly servant is strikingly similar. Believers are called to emulate this Christ-like humility.
3. **Foundation for Grace:** The verse explicitly links being "clothed with humility" to receiving God's grace, contrasting it sharply with the proud whom God resists. This highlights humility as a prerequisite for divine favor and a right relationship with God.
4. **Communal Harmony:** In the context of mutual submission within the church, this "apron of humility" fosters mutual deference, service, and love among believers. It is essential for breaking down pride and promoting unity within the body of Christ. It encourages believers to prioritize the needs and honor of others above their own.
### Summary
`{{G1463}}` enkombóomai is a rare but potent Greek verb, meaning "to engirdle oneself," specifically with an apron, symbolizing humble service. Its sole New Testament occurrence in [[1 Peter 5:5]] powerfully instructs believers to "be clothed with humility." This is not a passive state but an active, deliberate adoption of a servant's posture, reminiscent of Christ's example. The imagery of the apron emphasizes humility as a visible, intentional disposition of readiness for mutual deference and service within the community. Theologically, it underscores that active humility is a necessary garment for receiving God's grace and is foundational for healthy relationships among believers, standing in direct opposition to pride.
TRV