### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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