neuter of a presumed derivative of ennumi (to put on); a dress (inner or outer):--apparel, cloke, clothes, garment, raiment, robe, vesture.
Transliteration:himátion
Pronunciation:him-at'-ee-on
Detailed Word Study
AI-Generated
Loading Study...
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun ἱμάτιον (himátion, `{{G2440}}`) is a neuter term derived from a presumed root related to the verb *ennumi*, meaning "to put on" or "to clothe." Its primary meaning denotes an article of clothing, specifically an outer garment or cloak, which was a common and essential piece of attire in the ancient world. However, its semantic range extends to encompass clothing in general, including both inner and outer wear. The English translations "apparel," "cloak," "clothes," "garment," "raiment," "robe," and "vesture" all fall within its scope, indicating its versatility in describing various forms of attire. In its most basic sense, *himátion* refers to the everyday garments worn by individuals.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *himátion* appears frequently in the New Testament, often carrying significant contextual weight:
* **Healing Narratives:** Perhaps most famously, *himátion* is central to the account of the woman with the issue of blood, who sought healing by touching the "fringe of His garment" ([[Matthew 9:20]], [[Mark 5:27-28]], [[Luke 8:44]]). This episode underscores the tangible nature of divine power emanating from Christ, accessible through faith, even through an ordinary piece of clothing. Similarly, crowds sought healing by touching Jesus' garments in other instances ([[Matthew 14:36]], [[Mark 6:56]]).
* **Teachings on Discipleship and Ethics:** Jesus' radical teachings on non-retaliation include the instruction to give one's *himátion* (outer cloak) to someone who sues for one's *chitōn* (inner tunic) ([[Matthew 5:40]], [[Luke 6:29]]). This illustrates a profound call to generosity and a rejection of legalistic self-preservation, demanding a surplus of love and self-giving beyond what is merely required.
* **Passion Narrative:** During Jesus' trial and crucifixion, His *himátion* is repeatedly mentioned. He is stripped of His own garments and clothed in a scarlet robe by the soldiers ([[Matthew 27:28]]), then stripped again before being led to the cross ([[Matthew 27:31]]). Most poignantly, the soldiers cast lots for His *himátion* at the foot of the cross ([[Matthew 27:35]], [[Mark 15:24]], [[Luke 23:34]], [[John 19:23-24]]), fulfilling the prophecy of [[Psalm 22:18]]. This act highlights Jesus' utter humiliation and complete divestment, emphasizing the depth of His sacrifice.
* **Symbolic and Descriptive Use:** The term can simply describe clothing, such as the rich man's attire in the parable of Lazarus ([[Luke 16:19]]). More symbolically, it can denote spiritual purity or defilement. In [[Revelation 3:4-5]], those who have not "soiled their garments" (himátia) are promised white robes (`{{G4749}}`, *stolē*), suggesting a call to maintain moral and spiritual integrity. The washing of garments in the blood of the Lamb ([[Revelation 7:14]]) uses *stolē*, but the concept of clothing as a metaphor for spiritual state is consistent.
* **Post-Resurrection:** Peter puts on his *himátion* before jumping into the sea to meet the risen Christ ([[John 21:7]]), indicating a return to readiness and engagement with the Lord.
### Related Words & Concepts
The study of *himátion* is enriched by examining its relationship with other Greek terms for clothing and associated concepts:
* **χιτών (chitōn, `{{G5509}}`):** This term refers to the inner tunic or undergarment, often worn directly against the skin. It is frequently contrasted with *himátion* (the outer garment), as seen in Jesus' teaching in [[Matthew 5:40]], where giving both signifies extreme generosity.
* **στολή (stolē, `{{G4749}}`):** A long, flowing robe, often indicative of status, office, or dignity. It is used for the scribes who love to walk in long robes ([[Mark 12:38]]) and for the white robes of the martyrs and redeemed in Revelation ([[Revelation 6:11]], [[Revelation 7:9]], [[Revelation 7:13]]). While *himátion* is more general, *stolē* often carries a more specific, ceremonial, or status-related connotation.
* **ἔνδυμα (enduma, `{{G1742}}`):** A more general term for clothing or apparel, encompassing various types of garments.
* **περιβολή (peribolē, `{{G4018}}`):** Meaning a "covering" or "mantle," as used in [[Hebrews 1:12]] for the heavens being rolled up like a mantle.
* **Concepts of Purity and Defilement:** Clothing frequently serves as a metaphor for one's spiritual or moral state. "Clean garments" symbolize righteousness and purity, while "soiled garments" represent sin and defilement ([[Revelation 3:4-5]], [[Revelation 7:14]]).
* **Identity and Status:** The type and quality of clothing could signify social status, wealth, or even spiritual standing (e.g., the rich man's fine clothing in [[Luke 16:19]]).
### Theological Significance
The word *himátion*, though seemingly mundane, carries profound theological significance in the New Testament:
* **Divine Immanence and Power:** The narratives of healing through touching Jesus' *himátion* powerfully illustrate the accessibility of God's redemptive power through the person of Christ. It suggests that even the periphery of His physical presence carried divine efficacy, underscoring His unique identity as God incarnate. This points to a God who is not distant but intimately involved in human suffering and capable of immediate intervention.
* **Radical Kingdom Ethics:** Jesus' command to surrender one's *himátion* along with one's *chitōn* encapsulates the radical nature of kingdom ethics. It challenges conventional notions of justice and self-preservation, calling believers to a selfless generosity and non-retaliation that transcends legalistic boundaries. This teaching reveals the transformative and counter-cultural demands of following Christ.
* **Humiliation and Atonement:** The stripping of Jesus' *himátion* and the casting of lots for it at the cross are deeply symbolic of His utter humiliation and complete surrender to the will of the Father. This act, foretold in prophecy, highlights the extent of His suffering and His willingness to be completely divested for the sake of humanity's redemption. It underscores the atoning nature of His sacrifice, where He became poor that we might become rich ([[2 Corinthians 8:9]]).
* **Spiritual Purity and Transformation:** The metaphorical use of *himátion* in Revelation to signify spiritual purity ([[Revelation 3:4-5]]) emphasizes the importance of a sanctified life for believers. Keeping one's "garments clean" is a call to moral integrity and faithfulness in anticipation of Christ's return, reflecting the transformative power of the Gospel that clothes believers in righteousness.
### Summary
The Greek word ἱμάτιον (himátion, `{{G2440}}`) primarily denotes an outer garment or clothing in general, yet its usage in the New Testament transcends a mere descriptive function. It serves as a tangible point of contact for divine power and healing, illustrating the immanence of God in Christ. Furthermore, *himátion* becomes a powerful symbol in Jesus' teachings on radical discipleship, demanding sacrificial generosity and non-resistance. In the Passion narrative, its mention underscores the profound humiliation and prophetic fulfillment of Christ's atoning work. Finally, in its metaphorical applications, *himátion* speaks to the vital themes of spiritual purity and the transformed identity of believers. Thus, this seemingly simple word reveals rich theological layers concerning God's character, the demands of discipleship, and the nature of salvation.
TRV