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.
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.
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.
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.
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