### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **rhyparós**, represented by `{{G4508}}`, is defined as **dirty**, **cheap or shabby**, and morally, **wicked** or **vile**. It is a rare term, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** within the New Testament. Its singular use, however, serves a significant purpose in illustrating a contrast between wealth and poverty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G4508}}` is used to describe the clothing of a poor man entering a church assembly. [[James 2:2]] presents a scenario contrasting a man in "goodly apparel" with "a poor man in **vile** raiment." This direct comparison uses the word to denote shabbiness and lowliness, immediately establishing a context of social and economic distinction.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the context of `{{G4508}}`:
* `{{G2066}}` **esthḗs** (apparel, clothing, raiment, robe): This word for clothing is used for both the "goodly **apparel**" and the "**vile** raiment" in [[James 2:2]], highlighting that the quality of clothing is the point of contrast. It also describes the "gorgeous **robe**" Jesus was mocked with [[Luke 23:11]] and the "royal **apparel**" of Herod [[Acts 12:21]].
* `{{G4434}}` **ptōchós** (poor, beggar): This term identifies the person wearing the **vile** raiment [[James 2:2]]. Beyond this literal poverty, the word is used to describe a spiritual state, as in the "**poor** in spirit" who are blessed [[Matthew 5:3]] and those to whom Jesus was sent to preach the gospel [[Luke 4:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G4508}}` is concentrated in its single, impactful use.
* **Warning Against Partiality:** The word is central to the warning in [[James 2:2]] against showing favoritism based on wealth and appearance. The use of **vile** to describe the poor man's clothes sets up the sinful judgment that follows in the passage.
* **Outward Appearance vs. Inner Worth:** By associating `{{G4508}}` with the "poor man" `{{G4434}}`, the text contrasts external shabbiness with the spiritual value God places on the poor, who are chosen to be "rich in faith" [[James 2:5]].
* **Moral Vileness:** While used to describe clothing, the definition of `{{G4508}}` as morally **wicked** or **vile** adds a layer of meaning. It suggests that the true vileness is not the clothing itself, but the act of judging and discriminating based upon it.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4508}}` is more than a simple descriptor for "dirty" or "shabby." Its single appearance in scripture is pivotal, establishing a powerful contrast between the rich and the poor. It serves as a cornerstone for the biblical teaching against partiality, demonstrating how outward appearance, described as **vile**, stands in opposition to the true, faith-based richness recognized by God.
TRV