### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **peribállō**, represented by `{{G4016}}`, means to throw all around or invest. It appears **28 times** across **24 unique verses** and is most frequently used in the context of clothing, with translations like **array**, **clothe**, and **put on**. Its meaning extends from the literal act of dressing to the symbolic act of being invested with a certain quality, status, or appearance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G4016}}` describes both physical and spiritual coverings. It addresses basic human needs, as when Jesus speaks of what people will be **clothed** with [[Matthew 6:31]], and it is a key action in compassionate ministry to the **naked** [[Matthew 25:36]]. In the book of Revelation, the word takes on significant symbolic weight. Heavenly beings are described as being **clothed** in attire that signifies their nature or role, such as the angel **clothed** with a cloud [[Revelation 10:1]] or the great multitude **clothed** with white robes [[Revelation 7:9]]. In a unique literal sense that reflects its root meaning, it is used to describe enemies who will **cast** a trench about Jerusalem [[Luke 19:43]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide further context for the act of being clothed:
* `{{G2440}}` **himátion** (a dress, garment, raiment): This is a common object of the verb. Believers who overcome are promised they will be **clothed** in white **raiment** [[Revelation 3:5]].
* `{{G1131}}` **gymnós** (naked): This word describes the state that `{{G4016}}` remedies. Providing clothing for the **naked** is presented as a righteous act performed for Christ himself [[Matthew 25:36]].
* `{{G4749}}` **stolḗ** (long clothing, robe): This term often denotes a garment of dignity or honor. At the sepulchre, a young man was seen **clothed** in a long white **garment** [[Mark 16:5]].
* `{{G1039}}` **býssinos** (made of linen): This describes a specific, high-quality material used for clothing. The bride of the Lamb is granted to be **arrayed** in **fine linen** [[Revelation 19:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4016}}` is significant, especially in its symbolic applications.
* **Investiture with Righteousness:** Being clothed often signifies receiving a new spiritual status. For the bride of the Lamb, being **arrayed** in fine linen is explicitly linked to "the righteousness of saints" [[Revelation 19:8]].
* **Covering of Shame:** The act of being clothed is contrasted with the shame of nakedness. The church in Laodicea is counseled to buy white raiment to be **clothed** so that the shame of their nakedness does not appear [[Revelation 3:18]].
* **Symbol of Divine Status and Authority:** The appearance of heavenly figures is often defined by what they are **clothed** in. The Word of God is **clothed** with a vesture dipped in blood [[Revelation 19:13]], and the woman in the great wonder is **clothed** with the sun [[Revelation 12:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4016}}` is a versatile word that moves from the literal act of putting on a garment to the profound spiritual concept of being invested with a new identity. It is used to illustrate God's provision for physical needs, the importance of compassion, and the spiritual reality of being covered in righteousness and honor through Christ. Whether describing a simple robe or a heavenly garment, **peribállō** consistently points to the significance of what one is covered with.
TRV