The Greek word chitṓn, represented by G5509, refers to a tunic or shirt. It appears 11 times across 10 unique verses in the Bible. This term denotes a basic undergarment, often described as a coat, garment, or clothes, and serves as a fundamental article of apparel in scripture.
In biblical usage, G5509 often represents a basic and essential possession. John the Baptist uses it as a measure of charity, instructing that anyone with two coats should share with someone who has none Luke 3:11. Jesus commands his disciples to travel without a second coat, emphasizing dependence on God's provision (Matthew 10:10, Mark 6:9). The significance of the garment is highlighted at the crucifixion, where the soldiers divided Jesus's garments but cast lots for his seamless coat John 19:23. It is also shown as an object of service, as Dorcas was beloved for making coats and garments for the widows Acts 9:39. In a moment of high emotion, the high priest tore his clothes G5509 in response to Jesus's testimony Mark 14:63.
Several related words provide context for the meaning and use of G5509:
- G2440 himátion (a dress (inner or outer):--apparel, cloke, clothes, garment, raiment, robe, vesture): This often refers to an outer garment or cloke, which could be taken from a person after their inner coat G5509 was already surrendered Luke 6:29.
- G1284 diarrhḗssō (to tear asunder:--break, rend): This verb describes the dramatic action performed by the high priest upon his clothes G5509 to express outrage and condemnation Mark 14:63.
- G4561 sárx (flesh... the body... human nature (with its frailties... and passions)): This term is used in connection with G5509 to create a spiritual metaphor, where believers are to hate even the garment spotted by the flesh, signifying a rejection of moral corruption Jude 1:23.
The theological weight of G5509 is seen in its symbolic applications.
- Radical Charity and Simplicity: The coat is a benchmark for basic needs. The command to share a spare one Luke 3:11 and the instruction for disciples to travel with only one Luke 9:3 sets a standard for simple living and communal care.
- Symbol of Personal Worth: The coat is an intimate possession. It is what one might lose in a lawsuit Matthew 5:40 and is what the Roman soldiers G4757 gambled for at the foot of the cross, with Jesus's seamless coat being noted for its unique quality John 19:23.
- Metaphor for Spiritual Purity: The word is used metaphorically to represent a person's conduct. In Jude, the "garment spotted by the flesh" is an image of a life contaminated by sin, which believers must despise Jude 1:23.
In summary, G5509 is far more than a simple article of clothing. It functions as a tangible measure of a person's material status, a tool for teaching lessons on charity and divine dependence, and a powerful metaphor for spiritual purity and defilement. The chitṓn illustrates how scripture invests everyday objects with profound significance, moving from a literal tunic to a symbol of one's relationship with God and others.
TRV