Perikatharma
Perikatharma Definition
NAS Word Usage – Total: 1
- off scouring, refuse
- metaph.
- the most abject and despicable men
- the price of expiation or redemption, because the Greeks used to apply the term “katharmata” to victims sacrificed to make expiation for the people, and even to criminals who were maintained at the public expense, that on the outbreak of a pestilence or other calamity they might be offered as sacrifices to make expiation for the state
What Does Perikatharma Mean in Greek in Context of the Bible?
The word “Perikatharma” appears within the context of scripture, specifically in the Greek language of the New Testament. If you’re wondering what Perikatharma means, it translates to “external garment” or “overlay,” but its implications go far beyond just clothes. Understanding Perikatharma helps us delve into deeper themes found in Biblical texts, especially those relating to purity, holiness, and spiritual significance.
The Greek Roots of Perikatharma
The word stems from two Greek parts: “peri-” meaning “around” or “surrounding,” and “katharma,” which represents something that cleanses or purifies. Together, they convey the idea of something that surrounds or encases, often with the connotation of cleansing.
This etymology immediately layers the term with significance, especially in a Biblical context where the concepts of purity and cleanliness are vital to the Jewish faith and later Christian teachings. By breaking down the word, we can gain insight into how it’s used in scripture and what messages it conveys.
Biblical Instances of Perikatharma
In the Bible, “Perikatharma” specifically appears in the writings of the Apostle Paul, notably in 2 Corinthians 5:4. Here, Paul discusses the human condition, contrasting our earthly bodies with a spiritual existence awaiting the faithful. He writes about being “clothed” with a heavenly body rather than being “naked,” highlighting the significance of what the body represents in the life of a believer.
Spiritual Clothing in Paul’s Writings
In 2 Corinthians 5:1-4, Paul foretells the transformation believers will undergo. He talks about the “earthly tent” (our current physical body) and how it will be replaced by a “building from God.” In this context, Perikatharma relates not merely to physical garments but embodies the larger idea of spiritual readiness and divine purpose.
Paul uses this imagery to emphasize the importance of living a life in anticipation of this new existence. The idea of clothing helps illustrate our relationship with God and our state as we await transformation into eternal life.
The Context of Sacred Garments in the Old Testament
Before delving further into Paul’s perspective, it’s crucial to connect the concept of clothing and purity to the Old Testament, where garments often symbolize one’s relationship with God. The High Priest, for example, wore special garments when entering the Holy of Holies in the Temple, ensuring he was cleansed and ready to meet God’s presence.
The Symbolism of Clothing in Scripture
Throughout the Bible, clothing often symbolizes moral and spiritual conditions. In Genesis, Adam and Eve’s awareness of their nakedness after sinning showcases the loss of innocence and purity. Subsequently, God provides them with garments, which represents a restoration to some extent. The external garments become a metaphor for the internal state of being and highlighting themes of sacrifice, purity, and redemption.
Christ’s Message About Garments
In the teachings of Jesus, garments also carry weighty symbolism. For instance, in Matthew 22:1-14, the parable of the wedding feast includes guests being thrown out for not wearing the proper attire. Here, the garment represents righteousness. It signifies that each believer must don a spiritual covering that aligns with God’s standards and holiness.
The Wedding Feast Analogy
The concept of righteousness as a garment speaks to the necessity of being prepared for God’s Kingdom. Just as the guests needed appropriate attire for the feast, so too do believers need to embody the characteristics of the Kingdom—purity, love, and faith.
How Perikatharma Relates to Spiritual Readiness
Perikatharma embodies the idea of preparation, not just in a physical sense but also spiritually. As believers, we are often called to shed the old ways of living—symbolizing stripping away those garments that do not represent Christ’s nature.
Translating to Everyday Life
In practical terms, this ask of shedding past behaviors for a more refined and godly life might feel daunting. Paul’s mention of Perikatharma reminds us that while we are in this transformation journey, there is divine support. Just like garments can be layered, we can consistently add attributes of the Spirit to our lives (love, peace, kindness).
The Role of Community in Spiritual Clothing
Beyond individual transformation, Perikatharma also symbolizes our role within a community of believers. As we grow and change, we should encourage one another to “put on” these new spiritual garments. The community serves as a platform for mutual growth, helping each other be clothed in righteousness.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Illustration
The Bible often points to the strength found in community. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 speaks to how two are better than one because they provide support in times of need. In the context of spiritual clothing, we need each other to maintain and encourage an authentic life of faith, which in turn helps us better embody the Christ-like qualities symbolized by Perikatharma.
Conclusion
Perikatharma, as an external garment in Greek, carries rich layers of meaning when applied to Biblical context. Through the exploration of Paul’s letters and other scriptural references, we can appreciate how clothing represents both our individual and collective journeys in faith. Embracing the nuances of this term invites us to consider our spiritual preparedness and holiness in awaiting our eternal transformation.
In summary, understanding Perikatharma allows us to see our lives and faith from God’s perspective. It teaches us that what we wear—not just physically but spiritually—reflects who we are as children of God and members of a greater community.
Common Questions Related to What Does Perikatharma Mean In Greek In Context Of The Bible
Q. What is the basic translation of Perikatharma in Greek?
A. Perikatharma translates to “external garment” or “overlay.”
Q. In which book of the Bible does Perikatharma appear?
A. Perikatharma appears in 2 Corinthians 5:4.
Q. What does the term signify about spiritual readiness?
A. It symbolizes the need to be spiritually prepared for eternal existence.
Q. How does Paul use Perikatharma in his teachings?
A. He contrasts earthly bodies with heavenly ones, emphasizing preparation for the afterlife.
Q. Why is clothing significant in the Old Testament?
A. Clothing symbolizes one’s moral and spiritual state, particularly in relation to God.
Q. What does the wedding garment represent in Jesus’s parable?
A. The wedding garment symbolizes righteousness and preparation for entering God’s Kingdom.
Q. How does community relate to the idea of clothing in spiritual terms?
A. Community encourages believers to “put on” spiritual attributes and support one another in faith.
Q. What larger themes are connected with Perikatharma?
A. Purity, holiness, transformation, and divine purpose are significant themes tied to Perikatharma.
Q. How can believers practically apply the concept of Perikatharma in their lives?
A. By shedding negative behaviors and embodying virtues such as love, peace, and kindness.
Q. Why does it matter how we perceive ourselves in terms of spiritual garments?
A. Our spiritual garments reflect our identity and relationship with God, influencing how we live out our faith.