The Greek word éndyma, represented by G1742, is defined as apparel (especially the outer robe), clothing, garment, or raiment. It is derived from the verb ἐνδύω (to put on). The term appears 8 times across 8 unique verses in the Bible, serving to describe both literal and figurative coverings.
In its scriptural usage, G1742 appears in several key contexts. It is used to describe the simple, functional raiment of John the Baptist, made of camel's hair Matthew 3:4, as well as the supernatural raiment of the angel at the tomb, which was "white as snow" Matthew 28:3. Jesus uses the word when instructing his followers not to have anxiety over material needs, asking "why take ye thought for raiment?" Matthew 6:28. The term also carries significant metaphorical weight, such as the "sheep's clothing" used to disguise false prophets Matthew 7:15 and the essential "wedding garment" required to attend the king's feast in a parable Matthew 22:11.
Several related words help to frame the meaning of éndyma:
- G1746 endýō: to invest with clothing (literally or figuratively):--array, clothe (with), endue, have (put) on. As the verb from which G1742 is derived, it signifies the action of dressing. The two words appear together when Jesus speaks of what one shall put on for the body Matthew 6:25.
- G4983 sōma: the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively:--bodily, body, slave. This term refers to the body, which is covered by raiment. Scripture places the body as being of greater importance than the clothing it wears Luke 12:23.
- G5160 trophḗ: nourishment (literally or figuratively); by implication, rations (wages):--food, meat. This word for food is often used in parallel with G1742 to refer to the basic necessities of life, with Jesus teaching that life is more than meat, just as the body is more than raiment Matthew 6:25.
The theological weight of G1742 is evident in its symbolic applications.
- Divine Priorities: By teaching that the body is more than raiment, scripture establishes a divine hierarchy of value. It prioritizes God's creation (the body) over external, material possessions, thereby discouraging worldly anxiety Matthew 6:25.
- Hypocrisy and Deception: The image of false prophets in "sheep's clothing" uses the garment as a potent symbol for a deceptive outward appearance that conceals a destructive inner nature, highlighting the theme of spiritual authenticity versus religious pretense Matthew 7:15.
- Spiritual Preparedness: In the parable of the wedding feast, the garment represents a necessary qualification for entrance into the kingdom. The man found without a wedding garment is cast out, signifying that an appropriate spiritual state is required for acceptance by God Matthew 22:12.
In summary, G1742 moves beyond its literal definition of raiment to become a rich biblical symbol. It functions not only as a descriptor for physical apparel but also as a powerful metaphor. It is used to teach about trusting God for provision, to warn against the dangers of spiritual deception, and to illustrate the necessity of righteousness for entry into God's presence. The word effectively illustrates how an external covering can represent a person's true internal state.
TRV