Lexical Summary ependutés: Outer garment, coat, tunic Original Word: ἐπενδύτης Strong's Exhaustive Concordance fisher's coat. From ependuomai; a wrapper, i.e. Outer garment -- fisher's coat. see GREEK ependuomai NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom ependuomai Definition an outer tunic NASB Translation outer garment (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1903: ἐπενδύτηςἐπενδύτης, ἐπενδυτου, ὁ (ἐπενδύνω or ἐπενδύω, which see (cf. Winers Grammar, 25; 94 (90))), an upper garment (Tertulliansuperindumentum): John 21:7, where it seems to denote a kind of linen blouse or frock which fishermen used to wear at their work. (Sophocles fragment 391 Dindorf ((248 Ahrens): Pollux 7, 45, p. 717); the Sept. twice (thrice) for מְעִיל, 1 Samuel 18:4 (Alex.); 2 Samuel 13:18; (add Leviticus 8:7 Alex.).) Topical Lexicon Overview Strong’s Greek 1903 (ἐπενδύτης) designates an outer garment worn over the normal tunic. Appearing only once in the New Testament, it nevertheless illumines larger biblical patterns of clothing as symbols of identity, preparedness, and reverence before God. Biblical Context John 21:7 records the risen Jesus standing on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. When John recognizes Him, “Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment—for he had removed it—and jumped into the sea” (John 21:7). Peter had stripped down for the strenuous work of night fishing, but on realizing he was about to stand before the risen Lord, he hastily donned the outer cloak he had set aside. The action highlights three elements: 1. Recognition of Jesus’ lordship. Cultural and Historical Background First-century Jewish men commonly wore two layers: an inner tunic (χιτών) and an outer mantle or cloak. Laborers removed the heavier cloak for freedom of movement (cf. Isaiah 22:12, Matthew 24:18). Because the cloak also served as protection against cold and could even be pledged as collateral (Exodus 22:26-27), it conveyed dignity and personal security. To approach someone of higher status while only partially clothed was socially inappropriate. Thus Peter’s reflexive act communicated honor consistent with Near-Eastern customs. Theological Significance 1. Reverence and readiness. Peter’s impulse portrays how disciples should approach the risen Lord—covered, respectful, yet unhesitating. Practical Ministry Implications • Spiritual preparedness: believers “put on the Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 13:14). Ministry requires both eagerness (Peter’s leap) and due reverence (Peter’s cloak). Typological and Prophetic Considerations The outer garment echoes earlier biblical mantles: Elijah’s cloak passed to Elisha (2 Kings 2:13) and Joseph’s ornate robe (Genesis 37:3). Each marks identity and calling. Peter’s cloak foreshadows the righteous garments granted the bride of Christ (Revelation 19:8), anticipating the consummated kingdom where shame is banished and service is perfected. Related Biblical Themes • Clothing oneself with humility (1 Peter 5:5). Concluding Thoughts Though Strong’s 1903 appears only once, the picture of Peter hastily clothing himself before meeting the risen Savior offers a vivid lens on worship, repentance, and readiness for mission. The single garment on a Galilean shore reminds every disciple that reverence and zeal belong together whenever we respond to the Lord’s call. Forms and Transliterations επενδύτας επενδυτην επενδύτην ἐπενδύτην επερειδομένοις ependuten ependutēn ependyten ependytēn ependýten ependýtēnLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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