NAS Word Usage – Total: 8

1. garment, raiment, cloak, an outer garment

Understanding Biblical Greek

Before we discuss “Enduma,” it’s important to know that the New Testament of the Bible was primarily written in Koine Greek. This version of Greek was the common language of the Eastern Mediterranean from around 300 B.C. to 300 A.D. Koine Greek was simpler and more accessible compared to Classical Greek, which made it ideal for spreading the message of Christianity.

What Does “Enduma” Mean?

The word “Enduma” (ένδυμα) in Greek translates directly to “garment” or “clothing” in English. It is derived from the verb “enduo” (ενδύω), which means “to clothe” or “to put on.” The significance of clothing in Biblical texts often goes beyond mere physical appearance. Garments can symbolize various spiritual states, moral conditions, or roles and responsibilities.

“Enduma” in the Old Testament

Even though the Old Testament was primarily written in Hebrew, the Septuagint (LXX), a Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, offers insight into how “Enduma” was used.

Garments of Adam and Eve

The first mention of clothing in the Bible appears in Genesis 3:21. After Adam and Eve ate the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge, they realized they were naked and felt ashamed. God then made garments for them.

• Genesis 3:21 (LXX): “And the Lord God made garments (ένδυμα) of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them.”

In this context, “Enduma” represents God’s care and provision for humanity, even after they had sinned.

Priestly Garments

Another significant use of garments is seen in the description of priestly attire in the book of Exodus. These garments served as a symbol of the priests’ role and responsibilities.

• Exodus 28:2: “And you shall make holy garments (ένδυμα) for Aaron your brother, for glory and for beauty.”

“Enduma” here represents sanctity and divine beauty, indicating the sacred duties of the priests.

“Enduma” in the New Testament

The New Testament provides numerous instances where “Enduma” takes on metaphorical and theological meanings, emphasizing spiritual lessons through physical imagery.

The Parable of the Wedding Banquet

One of the most significant New Testament uses of “Enduma” is in the Parable of the Wedding Banquet found in Matthew 22:1-14. Jesus tells this parable to explain the Kingdom of Heaven.

• Matthew 22:11-12: “But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes (ένδυμα). He asked, ‘How did you get in here without wedding clothes, friend?’ The man was speechless.”

In this parable, the “wedding clothes” symbolize righteousness and the proper attitude expected in the Kingdom of Heaven. “Enduma” here is a metaphor for spiritual readiness and purity.

The Transfiguration of Jesus

In the event of the Transfiguration, the garments of Jesus are described in a very distinct way, emphasizing His divine nature.

• Matthew 17:2: “There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes (ένδυμα) became as white as the light.”

Here, “Enduma” signifies divine glory and purity, showing a glimpse of Jesus’ divine identity to His disciples.

The Armor of God

In Ephesians 6:10-18, Paul describes the different pieces of the “Armor of God,” encouraging believers to put on spiritual armor.

• Ephesians 6:11: “Put on the full armor (πανοπλία, a related term) of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

While “Enduma” is not used directly here, the idea of “putting on” spiritual armor is closely related to the themes of clothing and preparedness present in other Biblical uses of the term.

Symbolic Meanings of “Enduma”

Throughout the Bible, “Enduma” serves not just as a reference to physical clothing but also carries deeper symbolic meanings:

• Provision: Like the garments given to Adam and Eve, it depicts God’s care and provision.
• Purity and Readiness: In the Parable of the Wedding Banquet, it shows the necessity of spiritual readiness and purity.
• Sanctity: With priestly garments, it reflects the holiness and duties that come with God-given roles.
• Divine Glory: As seen in the Transfiguration, it reveals divine nature and glory.
• Spiritual Armor: Though not direct, it calls believers to be spiritually prepared against evil.

Conclusion

In summary, the word “Enduma” in Greek has rich and varied uses in the context of the Bible. It goes beyond its basic translation as “garment” or “clothing” to symbolize key spiritual truths. Whether it is representing God’s provision, highlighting purity and preparedness, or reflecting divine glory, “Enduma” plays a significant role in conveying deeper spiritual meanings throughout the Biblical texts.

Understanding these various contexts helps us gain deeper insights into the messages the Bible holds, enriching our comprehension and personal spiritual growth.