### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb G5265 hypodéō is a compound word formed from ὑπό (hypo, "under") and δέω (deō, "to bind"). Its literal meaning is "to bind under," specifically referring to the act of fastening something beneath one's feet. In common usage, this translates to "to put on shoes" or "to put on sandals," implying the action of tying or securing footwear. The semantic range of hypodéō is quite narrow and literal, focusing almost exclusively on the practical preparation for walking or travel by donning appropriate foot coverings. It does not typically carry significant metaphorical or abstract connotations beyond this basic physical action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The verb G5265 hypodéō appears twice in the New Testament, both times referring to the literal act of putting on sandals:
* **[[Mark 6:9]]**: In this passage, Jesus is giving instructions to the Twelve disciples as He sends them out on their first mission. He commands them, "but to be shod with sandals" (ἀλλὰ ὑποδεδεμένους σανδάλια). This instruction is given in contrast to not taking bread, a bag, or money, and not wearing two tunics. The directive to be shod with sandals indicates a practical necessity for travel in that climate, yet it also implies a certain simplicity and reliance on God's provision rather than excessive preparation. Sandals were humble, everyday footwear, suggesting that the disciples were to be prepared for the journey but without unnecessary provisions or ostentation.
* **[[Acts 12:8]]**: Here, an angel appears to Peter in prison to facilitate his miraculous escape. The angel gives Peter a series of commands: "Gird yourself and bind on your sandals" (καὶ ὑπόδησαι τὰ σανδάλιά σου). This is a direct, practical instruction for Peter to prepare himself for movement. The inclusion of such a mundane act within a miraculous deliverance highlights that even in divine interventions, God often works through and requires human action and practical steps. Peter is not simply teleported out; he must actively participate in his escape by preparing himself.
In both contexts, hypodéō consistently describes the physical act of putting on sandals, emphasizing readiness for a journey or an urgent departure.
### Related Words & Concepts
The meaning of G5265 hypodéō is clarified by its constituent parts and closely related terms:
* ὑπό (hypo, `{{G5259}}`): The preposition meaning "under" or "below," indicating the position of the footwear.
* δέω (deō, `{{G1210}}`): The root verb meaning "to bind," "to tie," or "to fasten," which describes the action of securing the sandals.
* ὑπόδημα (hypodēma, `{{G5266}}`): This is a noun directly derived from hypodéō, meaning "sandal" or "shoe." It refers to the object that is put on. For instance, John the Baptist states he is not worthy to carry Jesus' `{{G5266}}` (e.g., [[Matthew 3:11]]).
* σανδάλιον (sandalion, `{{G4568}}`): Another common Greek word for "sandal," often used interchangeably or in parallel with hypodēma.
* Concepts: The word is intrinsically linked to themes of preparation for a journey, readiness for ministry, and the practical necessities of daily life and travel in the ancient world.
### Theological Significance
While G5265 hypodéō is a highly practical and literal term, its usage in the New Testament carries subtle theological implications:
* **Readiness for Mission and Discipleship:** In [[Mark 6:9]], Jesus' instruction to be "shod with sandals" for the mission emphasizes preparedness for the journey of discipleship. It suggests a practical readiness to go wherever God calls, without being encumbered by excessive material possessions. It highlights a reliance on divine provision and a focus on the task at hand rather than worldly comforts.
* **Divine Provision and Human Agency:** The command to Peter in [[Acts 12:8]] to "bind on your sandals" during his miraculous escape illustrates the interplay between divine power and human responsibility. Even when God intervenes miraculously, He often expects human cooperation and the performance of ordinary actions. Peter's act of putting on his sandals signifies his obedience and participation in the divine plan, underscoring that God's sovereignty does not negate human agency.
* **Incarnational Reality:** The very mundane nature of hypodéō grounds the biblical narrative in human reality. It reminds us that even divine figures and those called to extraordinary service operate within the practical constraints of the human condition. The Son of God, and His apostles, lived and traveled in a physical world where even footwear was a necessity.
### Summary
G5265 hypodéō literally means "to bind under one's feet," signifying the act of putting on sandals or shoes. Its two New Testament occurrences consistently depict this physical action. In [[Mark 6:9]], it highlights the disciples' practical readiness for mission, emphasizing simplicity and reliance on divine provision. In [[Acts 12:8]], it underscores the human element in miraculous divine intervention, where Peter is commanded to perform the everyday act of putting on his sandals as part of his escape. The word, though simple in its core meaning, points to themes of preparedness for ministry, humility, and the integration of practical human action within God's sovereign plan. It is closely related to `{{G5266}}` hypodēma (sandal/shoe) and `{{G1210}}` deō (to bind), reflecting its etymological roots.
TRV