### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **himátion**, represented by `{{G2440}}`, refers to a **dress, cloke, or garment**, which can be an inner or outer piece of clothing. It appears **62 times** across **59 unique verses** in the Bible. While a general term for apparel, it often signifies an outer robe and carries symbolic weight beyond its practical function.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical narratives, `{{G2440}}` is used in several key contexts. It is central to the crucifixion, where the soldiers **parted** Jesus' **raiment** and cast lots for it ([[Luke 23:34]], [[John 19:24]]). It also acts as a point of contact for faith, as when a woman is healed by touching the **hem** of Jesus’ **garment** [[Matthew 9:20-21]]. The word describes acts of worship, such as the multitude spreading their **garments** in the way during the triumphal entry [[Matthew 21:8]], and gestures of extreme emotion, like the high priest who rent his **clothes** upon hearing what he considered blasphemy [[Matthew 26:65]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of clothing in scripture:
* `{{G5509}}` **chitṓn** (coat, garment): Defined as "a tunic or shirt," this typically refers to the inner garment worn under the `{{G2440}}` **cloke** [[Luke 6:29]].
* `{{G2899}}` **kráspedon** (border, hem): This word for "a margin, i.e. (specially), a fringe or tassel" is the specific part of Jesus' **garment** that people touched to receive healing [[Matthew 14:36]].
* `{{G1266}}` **diamerízō** (divide, part): Meaning "to partition thoroughly," this verb describes the action of the soldiers who **parted** Christ’s **raiment** at the cross [[Matthew 27:35]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2440}}` is significant, often used metaphorically.
* **Spiritual Covering and Purity:** Garments frequently symbolize a person's spiritual condition. Believers are counseled to acquire **white raiment** to cover the shame of spiritual **nakedness** [[Revelation 3:18]], and those who have not **defiled** their **garments** are deemed worthy to walk with Christ [[Revelation 3:4]].
* **Symbol of Status and Authority:** The type of **garment** can denote one's position. Those in kings' courts wear **soft raiment** [[Matthew 11:8]], while Christ is revealed with a name written on his **vesture**, signifying his ultimate authority as "KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS" [[Revelation 19:16]].
* **Tangible Point of Faith:** The **garment** of Jesus becomes a physical conduit for faith. By simply believing she would be made whole by touching his **garment**, a woman's faith results in her immediate healing [[Matthew 9:21]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2440}}` is far more than a simple article of clothing. It serves as a potent symbol representing spiritual state, authority, and even a focal point for divine power. From the practical **clothes** laid down in an act of worship to the glorious **vesture** of Christ the King, **himátion** demonstrates how ordinary objects are invested with profound scriptural meaning.
TRV