The Greek word períthesis, represented by G4025, is defined as "a putting all around, i.e. decorating oneself with:--wearing." It is a highly specific term, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its singular use focuses on the act of putting on an item as a form of decoration or personal adornment.
The sole appearance of G4025 is in 1 Peter 3:3, where it is part of a list describing external decoration. The verse specifies what a person's adorning should not be, listing "plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel." In this context, períthesis is used to describe the act of putting on golden ornaments as part of one's outward appearance.
Several related words in the same verse help to clarify the meaning of G4025:
- G2889 kósmos: This word, meaning "orderly arrangement, i.e. decoration...adorning, world," is used for "adorning" in the passage, establishing the overall theme of appearance 1 Peter 3:3.
- G1708 emplokḗ: Defined as the "elaborate braiding of the hair," this word appears immediately before G4025 in the list of outward adornments 1 Peter 3:3.
- G5553 chrysíon: Meaning "a golden article," this specifies what is being worn. The phrase is the "wearing of gold" 1 Peter 3:3.
- G1745 éndysis: This term means "investment with clothing" and is used for the "putting on" of apparel, completing the list of external decorations mentioned in the verse 1 Peter 3:3.
The theological context of G4025 is established by its placement within a discussion of adornment.
- Focus on External Appearance: The word is used exclusively to describe an outward action. The context of 1 Peter 3:3 frames this action—the wearing of gold—as a form of "outward adorning."
- Contrast of Values: The passage contrasts the act of wearing gold with other, unstated priorities. The related use of G5553 (gold) in 1 Peter 1:7 highlights that faith is "much more precious than of gold that perisheth," suggesting a thematic focus on spiritual value over material decoration.
In summary, G4025 is a precise term for "wearing" an item for decoration. Its only biblical appearance in 1 Peter 3:3 places it within a list of external adornments, including braided hair and fine apparel. This usage serves a larger theological point, contrasting the value of outward, worldly decoration with an implied superior inner quality.
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