from a primary (to "step" or "stamp"); a spread (as if tramped flat) of loose materials for a couch, i.e. (by implication) a bough of a tree so employed:--branch.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **stoibás**, represented by `{{G4746}}`, is defined as a spread of loose materials, like a bough from a tree. Its base definition comes from a primary root meaning "to step" or "stamp," suggesting something tramped flat to form a couch or path. This word is exceptionally rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G4746}}` occurs in a scene where a crowd honors an arrival. The verse states, "And many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down **branches** off the trees, and strawed them in the way" [[Mark 11:8]]. Here, **branches** `{{G4746}}` are specifically cut from trees to be laid down on the road, creating a path alongside garments that were also spread out.
### Related Words & Concepts
The context of `{{G4746}}` is clarified by related words used in the same passage:
* `{{G4766}}` **strṓnnymi** (to "strew," i.e. spread): This is the action performed with the branches. In [[Mark 11:8]], the branches `{{G4746}}` are "strawed" `{{G4766}}` in the way. This same verb is used for furnishing a room or making a bed, reinforcing the idea of preparing a surface ([[Mark 14:15]], [[Acts 9:34]]).
* `{{G2440}}` **himátion** (garment): This word describes the other items being laid down. In [[Mark 11:8]], the spreading of **branches** `{{G4746}}` occurs in parallel with people spreading their **garments** `{{G2440}}` on the road, showing two methods of creating the same honorable pathway.
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G4746}}` is tied entirely to its singular, specific use. It highlights an act of reverence and preparation.
* **Act of Honor:** The cutting of **branches** to be "tramped flat" as a path is a clear act of creating an honored walkway. It is a spontaneous gesture using materials from the immediate environment.
* **A Prepared Path:** The verb used with the branches, "to strew" `{{G4766}}`, is also used for making a bed or furnishing a room ([[Acts 9:34]], [[Mark 14:15]]). This suggests the branches `{{G4746}}` are used to "furnish" the road, transforming a common path into something special for the occasion.
* **Parallel Gesture:** The branches are used alongside garments `{{G2440}}`, indicating that natural boughs from a tree were considered a fitting tribute, equivalent to laying down personal cloaks or robes.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G4746}}` **stoibás** is a very specific term for a **branch** used as ground cover. Its sole appearance in scripture [[Mark 11:8]] captures a moment of spontaneous honor, where tree boughs are cut and strewn upon a road. The word's meaning is enriched by its context, used alongside the verb "to strew" `{{G4766}}` and in parallel with the spreading of garments `{{G2440}}`. Though appearing only once, **stoibás** provides a vivid image of a common path being transformed into a place of reverence.
TRV