### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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