ἔνδυμα

a garment, raiment

Definition

ἔνδυμα refers to a garment, clothing, or raiment, encompassing any type of attire worn on the body. In the New Testament, it most commonly denotes ordinary clothing, as seen in teachings about God's provision for basic needs like food and clothing (Matthew 6:25, 28; Luke 12:23). The word can also signify a specific, often fine or symbolic, garment, such as the wedding garment in the parable of the wedding feast (Matthew 22:11-12) or the dazzling white raiment of the angel at the tomb (Matthew 28:3). Additionally, it is used metaphorically for false appearances, as in 'sheep's clothing' disguising false prophets (Matthew 7:15).

Biblical Usage

This noun is used eight times in the New Testament, exclusively in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. In Matthew, it appears in teachings of Jesus about divine care (Matthew 6:25, 28), warnings against hypocrisy (Matthew 7:15), and parables about the kingdom (Matthew 22:11-12), as well as describing John the Baptist's attire (Matthew 3:4) and an angel's appearance (Matthew 28:3). Luke uses it once in a parallel teaching on anxiety (Luke 12:23). The usage patterns show it employed both for literal clothing and for vivid metaphorical imagery in Jesus' instruction.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ἐν (en, meaning 'in') and the root related to δύνω (dynō, 'to enter' or 'put on'), ἔνδυμα literally means 'that which is put on' or 'an entering into' clothing. It is cognate with the verb ἐνδύω (endyō, G1746, 'to clothe' or 'put on'). The etymology emphasizes the act of dressing or being clothed.

Semantic Range

ἔνδυμα carries theological weight in contexts of God's providential care, where Jesus assures believers that the Father knows their need for clothing (Matthew 6:28-30), linking material provision to faith and priority for God's kingdom. In the parable of the wedding feast (Matthew 22:11-14), the wedding garment symbolizes the righteousness required for entry into God's kingdom, highlighting themes of grace, preparedness, and proper standing before God. The metaphorical use in Matthew 7:15 underscores the need for discernment between outward appearance and inward reality in spiritual leadership.

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, clothing was a significant indicator of social status, occupation, and occasion. A basic ἔνδυμα was a fundamental necessity, making Jesus' teachings about anxiety over clothing resonate deeply. The 'wedding garment' in Matthew 22 would be understood as a special, often provided, robe for a feast, making the guest's lack of one a profound insult. John the Baptist's garment of camel's hair (Matthew 3:4) identified him with prophetic austerity, akin to Elijah. The angel's dazzling white raiment (Matthew 28:3) conveyed heavenly purity and glory.

ἱμάτιον (himation, G2440) — a general term for outer garment or cloak, often distinguishing it from undergarments. στολή (stolē, G4749) — a long, formal robe or vestment, often denoting honor, office, or ceremonial attire.

Word Details

Scripture References