NAS Word Usage – Total: 1

1. a putting on

What Does “Endusis” Mean?

The Greek word “Endusis” (ἐνδύσις) is generally translated to mean “clothing” or “putting on.” In its most literal sense, it refers to apparel, or the act of dressing oneself. However, like many words in ancient languages, its Biblical usage extends beyond mere cloth and fabric. It often refers to taking on attributes or qualities, essentially “clothing” oneself in something symbolic rather than physical.

The Linguistic Roots of “Endusis”

To understand “Endusis”, we can break it into parts:

• “En” (ἐν) meaning “in” or “into.”
• “Duo” (δύω) meaning “to sink into” or “to enter.”

When these parts are combined, “Endusis” conveys the idea of sinking into clothing, much like enveloping oneself in a garment. This concept of enveloping can be both literal (as in physical clothing) or metaphorical (as in taking on qualities or roles).

“Endusis” in the Old Testament

The Old Testament of the Bible was primarily written in Hebrew, but it was later translated into Greek, creating the Septuagint. When Hebrew texts were translated, certain Greek words were chosen to best capture the meanings from Hebrew. “Endusis” or its verb form “Enduo” often appeared in these translations.

Example from Isaiah

In Isaiah 61:10, the Septuagint uses the word “Endusis”:

“I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness…” (Isaiah 61:10, KJV).

Here, “Endusis” or “clothed” signifies more than just physical garments. It symbolizes being enveloped in God’s salvation and righteousness – portraying salvation and righteousness as something one can “wear” or be enveloped by.

“Endusis” in the New Testament

The New Testament, originally written in Greek, uses “Endusis” and its variations multiple times. This usage is often symbolic, conveying deeper spiritual or moral meanings.

Context in Pauline Epistles

The Apostle Paul frequently employs “Endusis.” For example, in Romans 13:14 he writes:

“But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts.”

The phrase “put on” translates from the Greek “enduo.” Here, Paul encourages believers to ‘clothe’ themselves with Jesus Christ, implying embracing His character and virtues, rather than just putting on a physical robe.

Example from Ephesians

In Ephesians 6:11, another instance appears:

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

Once again, “put on” (enduo) is used metaphorically, here to advise believers to embrace and envelop themselves with divine armor – characteristics like truth, righteousness, and faith – to withstand spiritual challenges.

Additional Biblical References

While “enduo” is more prevalent, it’s closely related to “endusis,” both drawing from the same core idea of enveloping or clothing.

Colossians 3:12

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

Paul uses “endusis” to exhort the Colossians to envelop themselves in positive attributes as a way of life. This passage urges readers to wear these virtuous qualities much like they would a physical garment.

Galatians 3:27

“For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.”

Here, the act of putting on (enduo) Christ signifies deeper spiritual identification with Jesus, suggesting that believers should embody Christ’s characteristics in their daily lives.

Theological Implications

The recurring use of “Endusis” in the Bible goes beyond just physical clothing. It serves as a powerful metaphor for transformation and sanctification. This concept emphasizes that believers should internalize God’s virtues and qualities as if they were putting on a coat.

Symbolism of Transformation

The act of putting on a new garment is often symbolic of complete transformation. In the Biblical context, this transformation is spiritual, encouraging the adoption of a Christ-like nature. Such symbolism reinforces the idea that embracing faith in God requires a concerted effort to embody His characteristics, analogous to putting on new, clean clothes.

Emphasis on Identity

In the same vein, “Endusis” stresses the importance of identity. The Bible often portrays believers’ commitment to God as a change in identity – from one’s former self to a new self in Christ. This mirrors how changing clothes can signify changing roles or statuses in society.

Modern Applications

Understanding “Endusis” can have meaningful applications in contemporary Christian life:

Spiritual Development

Just as the Bible advises putting on virtues, modern believers can focus on internal spiritual development. By thinking of daily actions and attitudes as “clothing” oneself with the qualities of Christ, one’s spiritual journey can become more intentional.

Community and Compassion

Given the collective exhortation in Colossians to clothe oneself with kindness and humility, modern readers can apply this lesson within their communities. Emphasizing these virtues can help build stronger, more compassionate and responsible communities.

Conclusion

In answering “What does Endusis mean in Greek in context of the Bible?”, we uncover a rich tapestry of meanings ranging from literal clothing to profound spiritual transformation. “Endusis” serves not only as a term for physical apparel but also symbolizes the divine qualities and virtues that God encourages believers to “put on” daily. This deeper understanding can enrich our reading of Biblical texts and inspire a more profound, symbolic approach to our spiritual lives. It encourages us to seek internal transformation that aligns us more closely with God’s character, making “Endusis” a truly significant term in the Christian faith.