### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phoréō**, represented by `{{G5409}}`, means to have a burden, or by analogy, to wear as clothing or a constant accompaniment. It appears **7 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible, carrying a sense of what is habitually worn or borne.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The use of `{{G5409}}` ranges from the literal to the deeply metaphorical. It is used to describe the physical act of wearing apparel, such as the "soft raiment" found in kings' houses [[Matthew 11:8]] or the "gay clothing" of a wealthy visitor [[James 2:3]]. In a pivotal moment, Jesus is presented "wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe" [[John 19:5]]. The meaning extends to bearing symbols of authority, as when describing a government minister who "beareth not the sword in vain" [[Romans 13:4]]. Theologically, it is used three times in a single verse to contrast our present state, having "borne the image of the earthy," with our future promise to "bear the image of the heavenly" [[1 Corinthians 15:49]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illustrate the contexts in which `{{G5409}}` appears:
* `{{G1504}}` **eikṓn** (a likeness, i.e. (literally) statue, profile, or (figuratively) representation, resemblance:--image): This word is central to the spiritual application of `{{G5409}}`, defining the "image" of the earthy and heavenly that is borne [[1 Corinthians 15:49]].
* `{{G2066}}` **esthḗs** (dress:--apparel, clothing, raiment, robe): A term for clothing that is "worn" by the wealthy man in the assembly [[James 2:3]].
* `{{G2440}}` **himátion** (a dress (inner or outer):--apparel, cloke, clothes, garment, raiment, robe, vesture): This word describes the "soft raiment" worn by those in kings' houses [[Matthew 11:8]] and the "purple robe" worn by Jesus [[John 19:5]].
* `{{G3162}}` **máchaira** (a knife, i.e. dirk; figuratively, war, judicial punishment:--sword): This is the object "borne" by the minister of God as a sign of judicial authority [[Romans 13:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G5409}}` is expressed through what is constantly carried or worn, defining one's identity and role.
* **Bearing Authority:** In [[Romans 13:4]], the governing official "beareth the sword" not just as a weapon but as a constant symbol of God-given authority to execute wrath on evildoers.
* **Bearing Christ's Humiliation:** The image of Jesus "wearing" the crown of thorns and purple robe is a powerful depiction of his suffering and mock-kingship, items he bore on the path to the cross [[John 19:5]].
* **Bearing a Spiritual Nature:** The most significant use is in [[1 Corinthians 15:49]], which contrasts our mortal existence with our resurrection hope. As we have "borne the image of the earthy," we will one day "bear the image of the heavenly," signifying a complete transformation of our being.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5409}}` is a dynamic term that moves beyond the simple act of wearing clothes. It conveys the idea of carrying something as a constant part of one's identity, whether it be physical apparel, a symbol of authority, or the very spiritual image one reflects. It teaches that what we bear—whether the earthly or the heavenly—defines who we are and what we will become.
TRV