### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **esthḗs**, represented by `{{G2066}}`, is a term for **dress**. It is derived from a word meaning "to clothe" and is translated as apparel, clothing, raiment, or robe. It appears **7 times** across **6 unique verses**, making it a specific but significant term for garments in the New Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2066}}` is used to describe clothing that reveals the nature or status of the wearer. It is used for the **apparel** of heavenly messengers, such as the two men in **white apparel** at the ascension [[Acts 1:10]] and the man in **bright clothing** who appeared to Cornelius [[Acts 10:30]]. Conversely, it highlights social and economic status, as seen in the contrast between the man in **goodly apparel** and the poor man in **vile raiment** [[James 2:2]]. The term is also used for garments of authority or mockery, such as Herod’s **royal apparel** [[Acts 12:21]] and the **gorgeous robe** used to mock Jesus [[Luke 23:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand on the theme of clothing and appearance:
* `{{G2986}}` **lamprós** (radiant;... magnificent or sumptuous): This adjective is frequently used with `{{G2066}}` to describe clothing that is impressive. It can mean **bright** [[Acts 10:30]], **gorgeous** [[Luke 23:11]], or **gay** [[James 2:3]], indicating splendor.
* `{{G4508}}` **rhyparós** (dirty... cheap or shabby): In direct contrast to splendor, this word describes the **vile raiment** of the poor man in James's example, highlighting poverty and low social standing [[James 2:2]].
* `{{G1746}}` **endýō** (to invest with clothing): This verb describes the act of putting on clothes. While it has literal applications, it is often used figuratively to mean putting on spiritual qualities, such as the "new man" [[Ephesians 4:24]] or the Lord Jesus Christ himself [[Romans 13:14]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2066}}` is demonstrated in its use as a powerful external symbol.
* **Indicator of Status:** The use of `{{G2066}}` in James illustrates a core ethical teaching. Preferential treatment based on "gay **clothing**" over "vile **raiment**" is condemned, showing that judgment based on outward appearance is contrary to God's law [[James 2:2-3]].
* **Signifier of Authority:** The word denotes power and position. The **apparel** of angelic beings signifies their heavenly origin [[Acts 1:10]]. Similarly, Herod puts on **royal apparel** when asserting his kingly authority before the people, an act of pride preceding divine judgment [[Acts 12:21]].
* **Symbol of Humiliation:** In the narrative of the crucifixion, a **gorgeous robe** `{{G2066}}` is put on Jesus not to honor him, but to mock his claim to kingship [[Luke 23:11]]. This use transforms an object of splendor into an instrument of scorn, highlighting the depth of Christ's humiliation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2066}}` is more than a simple word for clothing. It functions as a key descriptor that communicates identity, authority, and social standing. From the **bright** and **white apparel** of angels to the **royal apparel** of a king and the contrast between **gay** and **vile raiment**, the word helps to visually frame critical moments and moral teachings in the biblical text. It illustrates how a physical garment can carry significant theological meaning, revealing character and signifying divine or earthly status.
TRV