from πούς and another element of uncertain affinity; a dress (ἐσθής implied) reaching the ankles:--garment down to the foot.
Transliteration:podḗrēs
Pronunciation:pod-ay'-race
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word podḗrēs (ποδήρης, `{{G4158}}`) is a compound term, derived from poús (πούς, `{{G4228}}`), meaning "foot," and a second element of uncertain etymology, though clearly indicating a relationship to length or extent. Its core meaning is "foot-reaching" or "foot-length." It describes a garment, typically a robe or dress, that extends down to the ankles or feet. The term emphasizes the length of the attire rather than its material, color, or specific design. In ancient contexts, such long garments were often associated with dignity, authority, or ceremonial roles, distinguishing the wearer. The King James Version accurately renders it as "garment down to the foot."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term podḗrēs occurs only once in the New Testament, found in the book of Revelation:
* [[Revelation 1:13]]: "and in the midst of the seven lampstands one like the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the foot (ποδήρης) and girded about the chest with a golden band."
This singular occurrence is highly significant, as it forms part of John's awe-inspiring vision of the glorified Christ. The description of Christ's attire, specifically the podḗrēs garment, contributes to the overall portrayal of His majestic and divine nature. It is not merely a descriptive detail but a symbolic one, immediately evoking Old Testament imagery and theological concepts. The length of the garment, coupled with the "golden band" (`{{G2237}}`) around His chest, sets apart the figure as one of supreme authority and sacred office.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary root of podḗrēs is poús (πούς, `{{G4228}}`), meaning "foot," which directly informs the literal meaning of the garment's length. While podḗrēs is specific to the length, it belongs to a broader semantic field of clothing terms such as esthēs (ἐσθής, `{{G2077}}`, general clothing/raiment) or stolē (στολή, `{{G4749}}`, a long robe).
The imagery in [[Revelation 1:13]] draws heavily upon Old Testament precedents. The podḗrēs garment, particularly when combined with the golden band, strongly parallels the attire of the High Priest in the Mosaic Law. For instance, the "robe of the ephod" (me'il, `{{H4598}}`) worn by the High Priest was a long, seamless garment (cf. [[Exodus 28:31]], [[Exodus 39:22]]). Similarly, the "girdle" or "band" (ḥesheb, `{{H2805}}`) worn by the High Priest was often made of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet material (cf. [[Exodus 28:8]]). This connection suggests a deliberate evocation of the priestly office. Beyond the priestly context, long robes were also indicative of royalty, dignity, and prophetic authority in ancient Near Eastern and Greco-Roman cultures, as seen in various biblical narratives (e.g., [[Genesis 37:3]] regarding Joseph's "coat of many colors," which was likely a long tunic).
### Theological Significance
The singular appearance of podḗrēs in [[Revelation 1:13]] is laden with profound theological significance, primarily revealing aspects of the glorified Christ's identity and roles:
1. **High Priestly Office:** The most prominent theological implication is Christ's supreme high priestly ministry. The podḗrēs garment, particularly when paired with the golden band, directly echoes the vestments of the Old Testament High Priest. This imagery powerfully communicates that Jesus Christ is the ultimate High Priest, who has entered the heavenly sanctuary (cf. [[Hebrews 9:11-12]], [[Hebrews 4:14]]) and perpetually intercedes for His people. He fulfills and transcends the Levitical priesthood, offering a perfect and eternal sacrifice.
2. **Kingly Authority and Majesty:** In ancient cultures, long, flowing robes were also symbols of royalty, dignity, and supreme authority. The podḗrēs garment thus underscores Christ's regal status as the King of kings and Lord of lords. His attire reflects His sovereign rule over all creation and His position as the exalted Messiah.
3. **Divine Glory and Holiness:** The garment contributes to the overall aura of divine glory and holiness surrounding the resurrected Christ. It sets Him apart as a celestial being, radiating the unapproachable light of God. The length and formality of the robe signify His sacredness and transcendence.
4. **Judicial Role:** While less emphasized than the priestly or kingly aspects, long robes were sometimes associated with judges in ancient societies. Given the context of Revelation, where Christ is depicted as the righteous judge of the living and the dead, the podḗrēs garment can also subtly allude to His judicial authority.
5. **Continuity and Fulfillment:** The use of podḗrēs imagery creates a powerful link between the Old Testament types and their New Testament fulfillment in Christ. It demonstrates that the prophetic and priestly institutions of Israel ultimately pointed to and find their culmination in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
### Summary
The Greek word podḗrēs (ποδήρης, `{{G4158}}`) literally denotes a garment that reaches the feet. Its sole occurrence in [[Revelation 1:13]] is exceptionally significant, describing the majestic attire of the glorified Christ. This "garment down to the foot," combined with a golden band, primarily symbolizes Christ's supreme High Priestly office, fulfilling and transcending the Old Testament priesthood. Furthermore, it underscores His divine authority, kingly majesty, and inherent holiness. The podḗrēs garment thus serves as a profound visual and theological cue, revealing the exalted status and multifaceted roles of the resurrected Lord in His heavenly glory.
TRV