prolongation from a still simpler , (used only as an alternate in certain tenses) (probably akin to στερεός through the idea of positing); to "strew," i.e. spread (as a carpet or couch):--make bed, furnish, spread, strew.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G4766 (strṓnnymi) carries the primary meaning of "to strew" or "to spread out." Its etymological root is suggested to be akin to στερεός (stereos, `{{G4731}}`), implying a sense of making something firm or stable by laying it out. This foundational meaning extends to various applications, including:
* **Spreading material:** Such as garments, branches, or straw on a surface.
* **Furnishing a space:** Preparing a room by laying out mats, cushions, or other necessary items for use, particularly for reclining at a meal.
* **Making a bed:** Arranging bedding for rest or sleep.
The English equivalents provided—"make bed," "furnish," "spread," "strew"—aptly capture its semantic range, which often involves preparing a surface or space for a specific purpose or for the reception of someone significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
G4766 (strṓnnymi) appears a handful of times in the New Testament, each instance providing rich contextual insight:
1. **The Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem:**
* [[Matthew 21:8]]: "Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road."
* [[Mark 11:8]]: "And many spread their garments on the road, and others cut branches from the fields and spread them on the road."
In these parallel accounts, strṓnnymi describes the spontaneous actions of the crowd as they welcome Jesus into Jerusalem. Laying down garments and branches was an ancient sign of profound homage and royal recognition, preparing a path fit for a king. It signifies an act of worship and a public declaration of Jesus' messianic identity.
2. **Preparation for the Last Supper:**
* [[Luke 22:12]]: "And he will show you a large upper room furnished and ready; there prepare."
Here, the verb is used to describe the state of the "large upper room" (ἀνάγαιον, anagaion, `{{G309}}`), indicating it was "furnished" or "prepared." This would involve laying out the necessary cushions or mats for reclining, as was customary for meals in that period. The preparation of this specific room, divinely orchestrated, underscores the sacredness and significance of the Passover meal that would become the institution of the Lord's Supper.
3. **Peter Heals Aeneas in Lydda:**
* [[Acts 9:34]]: "Peter said to him, 'Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; rise and make your bed.' And immediately he rose."
In this miraculous account, Peter commands Aeneas, who had been paralyzed for eight years, to "make his bed." This instruction is not merely practical; it serves as a tangible, immediate, and undeniable proof of Aeneas's complete healing and restoration. The ability to perform this simple, everyday task, previously impossible, becomes a powerful testament to the transformative power of Jesus Christ working through His apostle.
### Related Words & Concepts
* **στρῶμα (strōma, `{{G4767}}`):** This noun, meaning "bed" or "couch," is directly derived from strṓnnymi. It refers to the object that is "spread" or "laid out" for rest or reclining.
* **ὑποστρώννυμι (hypostrōnnymi, `{{G5297}}`):** A compound verb formed with the preposition ὑπό (hypo, "under"), meaning "to spread under." This reinforces the core action of laying something beneath another, often as a covering or support.
* **στερεός (stereos, `{{G4731}}`):** "Solid," "firm," "steadfast." The proposed etymological link suggests that the act of "spreading" can result in a firm or stable surface, thereby connecting the physical act with a sense of stability or readiness.
* **Preparation:** A key concept associated with strṓnnymi is preparation. Whether for a royal procession, a sacred meal, or a demonstration of miraculous healing, the act of "spreading" makes a space or person ready for a significant event or new reality.
* **Honor and Homage:** The use of the word in the Triumphal Entry context clearly links it to acts of profound respect, honor, and even worship shown towards a revered figure.
### Theological Significance
The seemingly simple action conveyed by G4766 (strṓnnymi) carries profound theological implications in its biblical contexts:
1. **Divine Preparation and Orchestration:** The "furnishing" of the upper room for the Last Supper (Luke 22:12) highlights God's meticulous preparation for pivotal moments in salvation history. Even the physical setting for the institution of the Eucharist is divinely arranged, underscoring the sacredness and preordained nature of Christ's redemptive work.
2. **Recognition of Christ's Kingship:** The "spreading" of garments and branches during the Triumphal Entry (Matthew 21:8; Mark 11:8) is a powerful, albeit temporary, public acknowledgment of Jesus' messianic and royal claims. It is an act of humble adoration and a prophetic fulfillment, setting the stage for His ultimate reign, though not in the manner many expected.
3. **Tangible Proof of Transformative Healing:** The command to Aeneas to "make his bed" (Acts 9:34) after being healed by Peter is a vivid demonstration of the complete and undeniable power of Christ to restore. It moves beyond mere physical healing to a restoration of dignity, independence, and a return to the normalcy of life. This physical act serves as a profound sign of spiritual transformation and the reality of God's intervention.
### Summary
G4766 (strṓnnymi) is a Greek verb meaning "to strew" or "to spread out," encompassing actions like furnishing a room, making a bed, or laying down materials. Though appearing infrequently, its New Testament occurrences are highly significant. In the Triumphal Entry, it describes the public act of homage paid to Jesus as King, as people "spread" their cloaks and branches on His path. For the Last Supper, it refers to the "furnishing" of the upper room, setting a divinely prepared scene for one of Christianity's foundational events. Crucially, in the healing of Aeneas, the command to "make his bed" serves as an immediate and tangible proof of complete restoration by Christ's power. Across its uses, strṓnnymi consistently points to acts of preparation, honor, and the powerful manifestation of God's transformative work, often through seemingly simple human actions that facilitate divine purposes.
TRV