from περί and δέω; to bind around one, i.e. enwrap:--bind about.
Transliteration:peridéō
Pronunciation:per-ee-deh'-o
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G4019 *peridéō* (περιδέω) is a compound word formed from the preposition *perí* (περί), meaning "around" or "about," and the verb *déō* (δέω), meaning "to bind" or "to tie." Thus, the core meaning of *peridéō* is "to bind around," "to tie around," or "to wrap around." This implies an action of encircling or enveloping something by means of tying or fastening. The semantic range is quite literal, focusing on the physical act of securing an object by wrapping material around it. It conveys a sense of close contact, enclosure, or attachment through this binding action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *peridéō* occurs only once in the New Testament, found in [[Acts 19:12]]. This verse describes the extraordinary miracles performed through the Apostle Paul during his ministry in Ephesus: "so that even handkerchiefs or aprons that had touched his skin were carried away to the sick, and their diseases left them and the evil spirits came out of them."
In this context, the word *peridéō* describes the action of these "handkerchiefs" (σουδάρια, *soudaria*) or "aprons" (σιμικίνθια, *simikinthia*) being "bound about" or "wrapped around" Paul's body. These were not merely items Paul had touched in passing, but articles that had been in close and sustained contact with him, implying a saturation of his presence. The use of *peridéō* emphasizes this intimate physical connection. The verse then details the miraculous outcome: when these *peridéō*-wrapped items were brought to the sick, diseases vanished, and evil spirits departed. This highlights the unique nature of God's power working through Paul, even to the extent of using objects that had been in close proximity to him as conduits of divine healing and deliverance. The action described by *peridéō* is therefore crucial to understanding the mechanism of this extraordinary manifestation of God's power.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary related word is the root verb *déō* (δέω) `{{G1210}}`, which means "to bind," "to tie," or "to fasten." This verb is used frequently in the New Testament in various contexts, from literally binding someone with chains (e.g., [[Acts 20:22]]) to the figurative "binding and loosing" authority given to the disciples (e.g., [[Matthew 16:19]]). The prefix *perí* (περί) `{{G4012}}` is common in compound Greek words, often indicating surrounding, encompassing, or concerning. Its presence in *peridéō* specifically denotes the action of binding *around* something.
Other related concepts include:
* **Physical Contact and Healing:** The idea of divine power being conveyed through physical touch or objects is seen elsewhere, such as the woman touching the fringe of Jesus' garment to be healed ([[Matthew 9:20-22]]) or the sick being laid in the streets so Peter's shadow might fall on them ([[Acts 5:15]]).
* **Anointing and Consecration:** While *peridéō* itself does not mean "anoint," the concept of an object being set apart or made sacred through contact with a divinely empowered person resonates with the idea of anointing.
* **Instruments of Divine Power:** The handkerchiefs and aprons become instruments through which God's power is manifested, akin to Moses' staff or Elijah's mantle in the Old Testament.
### Theological Significance
The singular use of *peridéō* in [[Acts 19:12]] carries significant theological weight, primarily in illustrating the extraordinary nature of God's power working through His chosen apostles.
1. **Divine Power Manifested Tangibly:** The *peridéō* objects demonstrate God's willingness to use physical means to convey His spiritual power. It underscores the reality of God's active presence in the world, not merely as an abstract force, but as a tangible, transformative power that can be mediated through human instruments. This is not to suggest the objects possessed inherent power, but that God sovereignly chose to channel His power through them in a miraculous way.
2. **Confirmation of Apostolic Authority:** These unique signs and wonders, which included the use of items *peridéō* to Paul's body, served to authenticate Paul's apostleship and the divine origin of his message. In a city like Ephesus, steeped in magic and idolatry, such undeniable demonstrations of God's power were crucial for distinguishing the Gospel from pagan practices.
3. **God's Condescension and Sovereignty:** God condescends to work through ordinary human beings and even ordinary objects (handkerchiefs, aprons) to accomplish His purposes. The specific nature of these miracles (indirect contact via *peridéō* items) highlights God's sovereign choice in how and when He manifests His power, rather than implying a repeatable formula. It was a unique outpouring for a specific time and purpose.
### Summary
*Peridéō* (περιδέω) G4019 literally means "to bind around" or "to enwrap," a compound of *perí* ("around") and *déō* ("to bind"). Its sole biblical occurrence in [[Acts 19:12]] describes handkerchiefs or aprons that had been "bound about" or "wrapped around" the Apostle Paul's body. These items subsequently became conduits for extraordinary divine healing and deliverance from evil spirits. The word's significance lies in its precise description of the intimate physical contact that preceded the miraculous transfer of God's power. Theologically, *peridéō* in this context underscores God's tangible manifestation of power through physical means, serving to confirm apostolic authority and demonstrate God's sovereign and condescending work in the world. It is a humble word describing a profound divine intervention, reminding us of God's ability to use the ordinary for His extraordinary purposes.
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