### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **zṓnē**, represented by `{{G2223}}`, refers to a **belt** or, by implication, a **pocket** or **purse**. It appears 8 times across 7 unique verses in the Bible. It functions both as a literal article of clothing and as a container for money, carrying significant symbolic weight depending on its context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2223}}` is used to denote both status and function. John the Baptist is described as wearing a "leathern **girdle**" [[Matthew 3:4]] or a "**girdle** of a skin" [[Mark 1:6]] about his loins, signifying a rugged, ascetic lifestyle. In contrast, heavenly figures are depicted with "golden **girdles**," symbolizing majesty and divine authority, as seen on the Son of Man [[Revelation 1:13]] and seven angels [[Revelation 15:6]]. The word is also used to mean a purse, as when Jesus commands his disciples to provide neither gold, silver, nor brass in their **purses** [[Matthew 10:9]] and to take no money in their **purse** for their journey [[Mark 6:8]]. In a prophetic act, Paul's **girdle** is used to bind a man's hands and feet to foretell Paul's own capture [[Acts 21:11]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and use of `{{G2223}}`:
* `{{G4024}}` **perizṓnnymi** (to gird all around): This verb describes the action of putting on a girdle. It is used to describe the Son of Man being "girt about" [[Revelation 1:13]] and angels having their breasts "girded" [[Revelation 15:6]].
* `{{G3751}}` **osphŷs** (the loin): This is the part of the body around which a girdle was typically worn. John the Baptist is described as having a girdle about his **loins** ([[Matthew 3:4]], [[Mark 1:6]]).
* `{{G2932}}` **ktáomai** (to get, i.e. acquire): This verb, translated as "Provide," is used when Jesus instructs his disciples not to acquire or carry valuables in their **purses** [[Matthew 10:9]].
* `{{G5475}}` **chalkós** (copper... brass, money): This refers to a type of money the disciples were forbidden from carrying in their purse, or **zṓnē** ([[Mark 6:8]], [[Matthew 10:9]]).
### Theological Significance
The theological and symbolic weight of `{{G2223}}` is evident in its varied applications.
* **Symbol of Status and Authority:** The material of the girdle distinguishes the wearer. John's simple leathern girdle marks him as a prophet in the wilderness [[Matthew 3:4]], while the golden girdles of the Son of Man and the angels denote their divine power and readiness for judgment ([[Revelation 1:13]], [[Revelation 15:6]]).
* **Dependence on God:** When used as "purse," the command for the disciples to carry nothing in their `{{G2223}}` teaches a lesson of complete reliance on God's provision rather than on material wealth ([[Matthew 10:9]], [[Mark 6:8]]).
* **Prophetic Instrument:** The word transcends its use as a simple object when Paul's girdle becomes a physical tool for prophecy, illustrating the binding and suffering he would soon endure [[Acts 21:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2223}}` is more than a simple accessory. It functions as a practical belt for readiness, a purse for carrying money, and a powerful symbol in scripture. From the humble leather of a prophet to the radiant gold of a divine being, the **zṓnē** defines a person's role, their dependence on God, and their divine authority.
TRV