### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **simikínthion**, represented by `{{G4612}}`, is a term of Latin origin for an **apron**. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its base definition is a "semicinctium or half-girding," indicating a narrow covering or apron.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The singular use of `{{G4612}}` occurs in a unique narrative describing the miraculous events surrounding Paul's ministry. In this account, **aprons** were brought from Paul's body to the sick. The passage states that when these items reached the afflicted, "the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them" [[Acts 19:12]]. The **apron** is mentioned alongside handkerchiefs as a physical object that served as a conduit for healing and deliverance for those who were sick or possessed by evil spirits.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its sole context in [[Acts 19:12]] provide a fuller picture of the event:
* `{{G4676}}` **soudárion**: Defined as a "sweat-cloth" or towel, this word is translated as **handkerchiefs** or a **napkin**. It is used alongside `{{G4612}}` as another item brought from Paul to the sick [[Acts 19:12]] and is also mentioned as a cloth used to bind the face of a corpse [[John 11:44]].
* `{{G770}}` **asthenéō**: Meaning to be feeble or **weak**, this word describes the state of those who received the aprons. It can refer to physical sickness, as in the command to "Heal the **sick**" [[Matthew 10:8]], or to spiritual weakness, as in "Him that is **weak** in the faith" [[Romans 14:1]].
* `{{G4190}}` **ponērós**: This word for **evil** or hurtful describes the spirits that were cast out. Its meaning extends beyond simple harm to moral culpability and is used in the plea to be delivered from **evil** [[Matthew 6:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G4612}}` is derived entirely from its single appearance, where it illustrates the transfer of divine power.
* **A Conduit for God's Power:** The **apron** itself holds no inherent power but becomes a point of contact through which God's healing is manifested. The text explicitly links items from Paul's body to the departure of diseases `{{G3554}}` and evil `{{G4190}}` spirits [[Acts 19:12]].
* **Overcoming Sickness and Evil:** The use of the **apron** results in deliverance from both physical and spiritual afflictions. This demonstrates a holistic healing that addresses both diseases `{{G3554}}` and the influence of evil spirits `{{G4151}}`, a power the disciples were also given [[Luke 9:1]].
* **Extension of Apostolic Ministry:** The event shows that God's power working through an apostle was not limited to his physical presence or touch. Mundane items like **aprons** could extend the reach of his ministry, confirming his authority.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4612}}` is a specific and highly contextual word for **apron**. Its importance is not in its definition but in its role within the narrative of [[Acts 19:12]]. It serves as a powerful illustration of how God can use ordinary objects associated with His servants to perform extraordinary acts of healing, delivering people from both physical disease and the influence of evil spirits.
TRV