ὑποδέω

I put on my feet

Definition

The verb ὑποδέω literally means 'to bind under' and refers to the act of putting on footwear. In its middle voice, it means 'I put on (sandals) on my feet,' as seen when Peter is told to put on his sandals in Acts 12:8. In the passive voice, it means 'to be shod' or 'to wear footwear,' which is its usage in Mark 6:9, where the disciples are instructed not to wear sandals. A distinct, metaphorical usage appears in Ephesians 6:15, where having one's 'feet fitted' with the gospel of peace is part of the spiritual armor, shifting the sense from physical sandals to spiritual preparedness.

Biblical Usage

This verb is used only three times in the New Testament, each in a distinct context. In Mark 6:9, it's used in the passive voice in Jesus's instructions for the disciples' journey. In Acts 12:8, the middle voice is used for Peter's literal action of putting on sandals during his escape from prison. In Ephesians 6:15, Paul uses the perfect passive participle metaphorically as part of the 'armor of God' imagery, describing the believer's readiness that comes from the gospel.

Etymology

Derived from the preposition ὑπό (hypo, meaning 'under') and the verb δέω (deō, meaning 'to bind' or 'to tie'). It literally means 'to bind under,' specifically referring to binding sandals under or onto the feet. This is a straightforward compound word describing a common physical action.

Semantic Range

While primarily a mundane action, its use in Ephesians 6:15 gives it theological significance. Here, being 'shod' transitions from a physical description to a metaphor for spiritual readiness and stability. The 'gospel of peace' provides the foundation for a believer's stance and movement in spiritual warfare, emphasizing that readiness to proclaim and live out the gospel is essential armor against opposition.

In the ancient world, sandals were essential for travel and protection. Being shod indicated preparedness for a journey or work, while being unshod could signify poverty, mourning, or being on holy ground. The command in Mark 6:9 for the disciples to travel without extra sandals underscored a posture of dependence and urgency, trusting in hospitality. The sandals themselves were typically simple leather soles secured with straps.

ἐνδύω (endyō, G1746) — A more general verb for 'putting on' clothing or armor, not specific to footwear. ὑποδήματα (hypodēmata, G5266) — The noun form meaning 'sandals' or 'footwear,' the object that is put on.

Word Details

Scripture References