ποδήρης

a long robe

Definition

The adjective ποδήρης (podērēs) literally means 'reaching to the feet' and is used to describe a long, flowing robe or garment that extends to the ankles. In its sole biblical occurrence in Revelation 1:13, it specifically modifies the 'robe' (himation) worn by the glorified Christ in John's vision. This term emphasizes the garment's full length and dignity, distinguishing it from shorter tunics worn for everyday labor. The word does not carry different senses in different passages, as it appears only once, but its descriptive force is concentrated on the majestic appearance of the figure described.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Revelation 1:13, where it describes the 'robe reaching to the feet' worn by 'one like a son of man' in John's inaugural vision on Patmos. Its usage is entirely within an apocalyptic and highly symbolic context, contributing to the majestic and priestly portrayal of the risen Christ. There are no patterns of usage across books, as it is a hapax legomenon (a word occurring only once).

Etymology

Derived from the Greek words πούς (pous, G4228), meaning 'foot,' and the suffix -ήρης, which indicates 'fastened to' or 'reaching to.' Thus, ποδήρης literally means 'foot-fastened' or 'extending to the feet.' It is a compound adjective that vividly describes the length of a garment.

Semantic Range

In Revelation 1:13, the 'robe reaching to the feet' (ποδήρης) is a key visual element in the depiction of the exalted Christ. This long robe, often associated with high priests and royalty in the Old Testament (e.g., Exodus 28:4, Ezekiel 9:2), signifies Christ's priestly ministry, sovereign authority, and majestic glory. Understanding this Greek term enriches the reading by highlighting the intentional symbolism: the one walking among the lampstands (the churches) is both the compassionate High Priest and the divine King, clothed in dignity and splendor.

In the ancient Greco-Roman and Jewish world, long, ankle-length garments (like the podērēs) were typically worn by individuals of high status, wealth, or official rank, such as priests, kings, and judges. They were impractical for manual labor, where shorter tunics were common. Therefore, the vision in Revelation immediately communicates the exalted, authoritative, and holy status of the figure. This cultural association with dignity and office would have been readily understood by the original audience.

χιτών (chitōn, G5509) — a basic tunic or undergarment, usually shorter and worn by all classes; ἱμάτιον (himation, G2440) — a general term for an outer garment or cloak, which in Revelation 1:13 is specifically modified as ποδήρης.

Word Details

Scripture References