NAS Word Usage – Total: 1

1. knot or band by which two things are fastened together, to fasten or gird one’s self

Etymology of Egkomboomai

The word “Egkomboomai” (ἐγκομβόομαι) might seem complex at first glance, but breaking it down unveils its rich meaning. The root of the word is “kombe,” which means “to veil or clothe.” The prefix “en-” adds the sense of “in” or “within.” When combined, “Egkomboomai” essentially means “to be clothed with,” “to be clothed in,” or “to wear.”

This verb is found in 1 Peter 5:5, and it’s essential to understand this root meaning because it gives us context about humility, character, and virtues that we, as believers, should metaphorically “wear” or embody.

Egkomboomai in 1 Peter 5:5

The primary biblical reference to “Egkomboomai” is found in 1 Peter 5:5, which states:

“In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'” (NIV)

Here, “Egkomboomai” is translated as “clothe yourselves.” This gives a vivid image almost as if humility is a garment that one should actively put on.

The Symbolism of Clothing in Ancient Culture

To fully grasp the meaning of “Egkomboomai,” it’s valuable to understand the importance of clothing in ancient Greek and Hebrew culture. Clothing was not just a means of covering oneself; it signified identity, status, and even one’s relationship with God. For example, priests in the Old Testament had specific garments that they wore for their service to God. In a similar vein, Peter is asking believers to “wear” humility as part of their spiritual identity.

Humility as a Garment

By instructing believers to “clothe themselves” with humility, Peter emphasizes that humility should not be occasional. Instead, it should be as constant and close to us as the clothes we wear daily. This act of clothing signifies an active and intentional effort to embrace humility.

Practical Applications of Egkomboomai

Understanding this word in its biblical context is not just an intellectual exercise. It has practical applications for modern believers.

Daily Commitment

The use of “Egkomboomai” implies a daily, conscious effort. Just as we put on clothes every day, we are meant to ‘wear’ humility. This means humbling ourselves before God and others in our daily interactions.

Community Living

Peter was addressing communities of early Christians, many of whom faced persecution. Humility was vital for fostering unity and love within these communities. Similarly, in today’s diverse and often divided world, humility can be a unifying force in our faith communities.

Servant Leadership

In another part of the New Testament, Jesus is depicted as washing the disciples’ feet to teach them about servant leadership (John 13:14-15). This aligns well with Peter’s call to “clothe yourselves with humility.” Leaders are called to serve others selflessly, viewing their roles as opportunities to uplift rather than dominate.

Egkomboomai and Its Counterparts

While “Egkomboomai” is a unique word with specific usage, other Greek words convey similar ideas. For instance, “tapeinophrosune” (ταπεινοφροσύνη) also means humility and appears multiple times in the New Testament.

Comparing and Contrasting

• Egkomboomai: Emphasizes an actionable aspect – the act of clothing oneself in humility.
• Tapeinophrosune: Focuses on the state of being humble, highlighting the internal quality.

Both terms complement each other. While “tapeinophrosune” sets the internal attitude, “egkomboomai” encourages the external manifestation of that attitude.

Theological Perspectives on Egkomboomai

Many theologians view the act of clothing oneself in virtues as aligning with the concept of “putting on Christ” (Galatians 3:27). This suggests that virtues like humility are not standalone traits but are intertwined with the believer’s relationship with Jesus. By clothing ourselves in humility, we reflect Christ’s nature more closely.

The Divine Opposition to Pride

The Scripture in 1 Peter 5:5 concludes with a warning and a promise. “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” This highlights that humility is not just an admirable trait but a necessity for receiving God’s grace and favor. The word “egkomboomai” stresses the active rejection of pride and the acceptance of humility.

Egkomboomai in Modern Translations and Interpretations

Different translations of the Bible render “Egkomboomai” in various ways, yet all maintain the core idea of humility as a garment:

• NIV: “Clothe yourselves with humility”
• ESV: “Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility”
• KJV: “Be clothed with humility”

These translations help make the concept accessible to modern readers, showing that the principle has timeless relevance.

Conclusion

Understanding “Egkomboomai” in the context of the Bible opens up new dimensions of what it means to live a humble life. It challenges believers to view humility not just as an attitude but as an active, daily commitment.

In a world that often values pride and self-promotion, the biblical call to “clothe yourselves with humility” remains as challenging and transformative today as it was in Peter’s time. By embracing the fullness of what “Egkomboomai” means, we align ourselves more closely with the character of Jesus and become better equipped to serve others in love and unity.