περιδέω

I bind around

Definition

The verb περιδέω means 'to bind around' or 'to tie around' something. It is a compound word formed from περί (peri, meaning 'around') and δέω (deō, meaning 'to bind'). In its single New Testament occurrence in John 11:44, it describes the cloth strips that were bound around the hands and feet of Lazarus after his burial, specifically noting that his face was also bound with a separate cloth (a σουδάριον, soudarion). This usage conveys a sense of being tightly wrapped or secured on all sides.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in John 11:44, within the narrative of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. The context is specifically funerary, describing the linen burial cloths that were customarily wound around a corpse. The word highlights the physical state of Lazarus as he emerged from the tomb, still bound by these wrappings, which Jesus then commanded to be loosed.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition περί (peri), meaning 'around,' 'about,' or 'concerning,' combined with the primary verb δέω (deō, Strong's G1210), meaning 'to bind,' 'tie,' or 'fasten.' The compound form intensifies the sense of binding, specifying an action done circularly or on all sides. Cognates include other compounds with δεω, such as ἀποδέω (apodeō, 'to bind fast') and συνδέω (syndeō, 'to bind together').

Semantic Range

While περιδέω itself is a descriptive term for a physical action, its sole biblical use in John 11:44 carries significant theological weight within the Lazarus narrative. It vividly illustrates the reality of death and burial, making Jesus's command to 'unbind him' a powerful symbol of liberation from the bonds of death itself. Understanding this specific Greek term enriches the reading by emphasizing the complete, tangible nature of Lazarus's restoration to life—he was not merely spiritually raised but physically freed from the very wrappings of the grave, prefiguring Christ's own resurrection and the believer's future hope.

In the first-century Jewish context, the use of cloth strips (ὀθόνια, othonia) to bind a corpse was a common burial practice. This involved winding linen cloths around the body, often with spices placed between the layers. The separate cloth for the face (the σουδάριον) was also typical. Therefore, περιδέω accurately reflects the specific cultural method of preparing a body for burial, differing from modern embalming or coffin-based interment.

δέω (deō, G1210) — The root verb meaning simply 'to bind' or 'tie,' without the encircling sense. συνδέω (syndeō, G4887) — Means 'to bind together' or 'unite,' emphasizing conjunction rather than encirclement. διαδέω (diadeō, G1226) — Means 'to bind around' or 'bind across,' sometimes used for binding on a crown or headband.

Word Details

Scripture References