perhaps from the same as ἅμα; a strap, i.e. (specially) the tie (of a sandal) or the lash (of a scourge):--latchet, thong.
Transliteration:himás
Pronunciation:hee-mas'
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun G2438 (ἱμάς, himás) fundamentally denotes a "strap" or "thong." Its semantic range extends to specific applications, most notably the "tie of a sandal" (latchet) and, by extension in broader Greek usage, the "lash of a scourge." The etymological suggestion of a connection to ἅμα (hama), meaning "at the same time" or "together," subtly reinforces the idea of something that binds or holds elements in conjunction. In the New Testament, its usage is consistently focused on the former, the sandal strap.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
G2438 appears exclusively in the Synoptic Gospels and the Gospel of John, always in the context of John the Baptist's declaration of unworthiness concerning Jesus Christ.
* In [[Mark 1:7]], [[Luke 3:16]], and [[John 1:27]], John the Baptist states, concerning the coming Messiah, that he is "not worthy to stoop down and untie" or "not worthy to untie the strap of His sandals."
The act of untying or carrying someone's sandals was a task reserved for the lowest of servants or slaves in the ancient world. It was considered so menial that even a Jewish disciple was not expected to perform it for his rabbi. John the Baptist, a revered prophet and the forerunner of the Messiah, uses this imagery to powerfully convey the immense chasm between his own status and the divine majesty and authority of Jesus. His statement underscores a profound humility and a recognition of Jesus' absolute superiority. The himás thus becomes a symbol of the most menial service, which John declares himself unfit to perform for the Christ.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary association of G2438 in the New Testament is with ὑποδήματα (hypodēmata), meaning "sandals" or "shoes," as it describes the specific part of the footwear. Conceptually, himás is intrinsically linked to themes of:
* **Humility and Servitude:** As discussed, untying sandals was a task for the lowest servants, highlighting John's posture of profound humility before Jesus.
* **Authority and Superiority:** John's unworthiness implicitly magnifies Jesus' supreme authority and divine nature.
* **Preparation and Transition:** John the Baptist, as the last prophet of the Old Covenant, prepares the way for the New Covenant inaugurated by Jesus. His statement marks the transition from his ministry to the vastly superior ministry of the Messiah.
* The implied connection to ἅμα (hama) `{{G260}}` suggests a general sense of binding or fastening, which is the core function of a strap.
### Theological Significance
The single, consistent use of G2438 in the Gospels carries significant theological weight. John the Baptist's declaration is not merely a statement of personal humility but a profound theological confession regarding the identity of Jesus.
1. **Christ's Divine Majesty:** By stating his unworthiness to perform even the most menial task for Jesus, John implicitly elevates Jesus to a status far beyond any human, including himself, a divinely appointed prophet. This highlights Jesus' unique divine nature and authority.
2. **The Nature of True Humility:** John's example serves as a paradigm of true humility before God. Despite his own significant ministry and prophetic calling, he understands his place in relation to the Messiah, demonstrating a self-abasement that recognizes God's absolute sovereignty and Christ's preeminence.
3. **Contrast Between Covenants:** The imagery subtly reinforces the distinction between John's baptism of repentance and Jesus' baptism with the Holy Spirit and fire. John, who baptizes with water, is not even worthy to handle the footwear of the One who brings the Spirit and judgment.
4. **Implication for Discipleship:** The passage challenges believers to adopt a similar posture of humility and reverence towards Christ, recognizing that no service is too low, yet also acknowledging the infinite gap between human frailty and divine perfection.
### Summary
The Greek word G2438 (himás), meaning "strap" or "thong," is used exclusively in the New Testament to refer to the "sandal strap." Its repeated occurrence in the Gospels, particularly in the declarations of John the Baptist concerning Jesus, imbues it with profound theological significance. The act of untying a sandal strap was the task of the lowest servant, and John's assertion of unworthiness for even this menial service powerfully underscores Jesus' divine majesty, supreme authority, and unique identity as the Messiah. The himás thus symbolizes the vast disparity between human limitations and divine perfection, serving as a poignant reminder of true humility and reverence in the presence of Christ.
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