### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **himás**, represented by `{{G2438}}`, refers to a **strap**, and is specially used to mean the **tie** of a sandal (a latchet) or the **lash** of a scourge (a thong). It appears **4 times** in **4 unique verses** in the Bible, highlighting its use in two distinct and significant contexts: an expression of profound humility and an instrument of physical punishment.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In three of its occurrences, `{{G2438}}` is used by John the Baptist to express his unworthiness in comparison to the Messiah. He **preached** `{{G2784}}`, saying that one **mightier than** `{{G2478}}` he is coming, and he is not **worthy** `{{G2425}}` to **stoop down** `{{G2955}}` and **unloose** `{{G3089}}` the **latchet** of his shoes [[Mark 1:7]]. This sentiment is echoed in [[Luke 3:16]] and [[John 1:27]], where the act of untying a sandal strap signifies the role of a lowly servant. The fourth use appears when the apostle Paul is bound with **thongs** `{{G2438}}` in preparation for being scourged. Paul questions the centurion, asking if it is **lawful** `{{G1832}}` to **scourge** `{{G3147}}` a **Roman** `{{G4514}}` who is **uncondemned** `{{G178}}` [[Acts 22:25]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the meaning of `{{G2438}}` in its contexts:
* `{{G2478}}` **ischyrós** (mighty(-ier)): This word, meaning "forcible," is used by John the Baptist to contrast his own status with the power of the one coming after him [[Mark 1:7]].
* `{{G3089}}` **lýō** (to unloose): Defined as to "'loosen' (literally or figuratively)," this is the specific action John declares himself unworthy to perform on the Messiah's sandal latchet [[Luke 3:16]].
* `{{G5266}}` **hypódēma** (shoe): Meaning "something bound under the feet, i.e. a shoe or sandal," this is the object to which the latchet is attached [[John 1:27]].
* `{{G3147}}` **mastízō** (to scourge): This word, meaning "to whip," describes the intended punishment for which Paul was bound with thongs [[Acts 22:25]].
### Theological Significance
The word `{{G2438}}` carries significant theological weight through its contextual usage:
* **Symbol of Humility:** The sandal **latchet** `{{G2438}}` becomes a powerful symbol of servitude and humility. John the Baptist's declaration that he is not **worthy** `{{G2425}}` to unloose this simple strap establishes the immense gap between himself and the Christ [[Luke 3:16]].
* **Instrument of Suffering:** As a **thong** used for binding, the word points to physical suffering and persecution. Paul being bound with thongs before his potential scourging connects the word to the physical trials faced by the apostles [[Acts 22:25]].
* **Contrast of Authority:** In both contexts, the word highlights a contrast in authority. John's humility before Christ's authority is one example. In another, Paul asserts his higher legal authority as a Roman citizen over the centurion who had him bound with **thongs** `{{G2438}}` [[Acts 22:25]].
### Summary
In summary, **himás** `{{G2438}}` is more than just a strap. Though appearing only four times, its meaning shifts dramatically with its context. As a sandal **latchet**, it is a key element in John the Baptist's proclamation of Christ's superiority and his own profound humility [[Mark 1:7]]. As a **thong**, it is an instrument of legal punishment that becomes the focal point for Paul's assertion of his rights as a Roman citizen [[Acts 22:25]]. Thus, a simple object is used to illustrate deep truths about servanthood, authority, and suffering.
TRV