στρωννύω

I spread, make a bed

Definition

The verb στρωννύω primarily means 'to spread out' or 'to prepare by spreading.' In its literal sense, it refers to the physical act of spreading garments or coverings, as seen when crowds spread their cloaks on the road for Jesus' triumphal entry (Matthew 21:8, Mark 11:8). It also means to prepare or furnish a room by spreading coverings on couches or beds, as in the preparation of the Upper Room (Mark 14:15, Luke 22:12). In a figurative and miraculous sense, it is used when Peter tells Aeneas, 'Jesus Christ heals you; get up and make your bed,' where the command implies the restored ability to perform the ordinary task of arranging one's bedding (Acts 9:34).

Biblical Usage

This verb is used five times in the New Testament, appearing in the Gospels and Acts. Its usage consistently involves preparation. In three instances, it describes people spreading their garments or leafy branches on the ground as an act of homage for Jesus (Matthew 21:8, Mark 11:8). In two instances, it refers to preparing a furnished room, specifically the Upper Room for the Passover (Mark 14:15, Luke 22:12). The final use is a command from Peter to a healed paralytic to 'make his bed,' demonstrating the completeness of the healing (Acts 9:34).

Etymology

The word στρωννύω is a primary verb in Greek. It is related to the noun στρῶμα (G4766, a cognate noun), which means 'a bed, couch, or spreading.' The root conveys the core idea of extending something flat. It is the source for the English word 'strew.'

Semantic Range

While primarily a practical verb, its usage carries theological significance. In the triumphal entry narratives, the act of spreading cloaks is a spontaneous, royal homage acknowledging Jesus as king (Matthew 21:8, Mark 11:8). In Acts 9:34, the command to 'make your bed' is not just about tidiness; it is a public demonstration that Aeneas's healing by the power of Jesus Christ was instantaneous and complete, serving as a sign that validated the gospel message.

Spreading garments or branches on the path was a known cultural practice in the ancient Near East to honor a visiting king or dignitary (see 2 Kings 9:13). It was an act of submission and celebration. Preparing a 'furnished' room (Mark 14:15) involved spreading carpets, cushions, and coverings on the dining couches for a formal meal, which differed from modern seating arrangements.

ἑτοιμάζω (hetoimazō, G2090) — a broader term for 'prepare' or 'make ready,' not specific to spreading. τίθημι (tithēmi, G5087) — means 'to put' or 'place,' but lacks the specific connotation of spreading out flat.

Word Details

Scripture References