Topical Encyclopedia The term "Fisher's Coat" is often associated with the garment worn by the Apostle Peter, also known as Simon Peter, who was a fisherman by trade before being called by Jesus to become a "fisher of men" (Matthew 4:19). The specific reference to Peter's coat is found in the Gospel of John, where it is mentioned in the context of one of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances.In John 21:7 , the narrative describes a miraculous catch of fish orchestrated by the risen Christ. Upon realizing that the man on the shore is Jesus, "the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, 'It is the Lord!' As soon as Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment (for he had removed it) and jumped into the sea." The "outer garment" referred to here is often understood to be the fisher's coat, which Peter had set aside while working. The fisher's coat, or outer garment, signifies Peter's readiness to meet the Lord with respect and reverence. In the cultural context of the time, it was customary for individuals to wear an outer garment in public or formal settings, and Peter's act of putting it on before approaching Jesus reflects his acknowledgment of the Lord's presence and his own humility. Theologically, the fisher's coat can symbolize the transition from Peter's old life as a fisherman to his new calling as an apostle. It serves as a reminder of his initial calling by Jesus and his subsequent role in the early Church. The act of donning the coat and leaping into the sea also illustrates Peter's impulsive and passionate nature, traits that are consistently depicted throughout the Gospels. Moreover, the fisher's coat can be seen as a metaphor for the Christian's preparation to meet Christ. Just as Peter prepared himself by putting on his garment, believers are called to clothe themselves in righteousness and readiness for the Lord's return, as emphasized in various New Testament passages (e.g., Ephesians 6:14). In summary, the fisher's coat is a small but significant detail in the Gospel narrative that highlights Peter's character, his relationship with Jesus, and the broader themes of transformation and readiness in the Christian life. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Fisher's CoatFISHER'S COAT kot: This expression is found in John 21:7 where the Revised Version (British and American) and the American Standard Revised Version have "coat." John here, after representing Peter as "naked" (gumnos), pictures him as girding on his "coat" (ependutes), literally, "upper garment," and not at all specifically a "fisher's coat." Greek 1903. ependutes -- an outer tunic ... fisher's coat. From ependuomai; a wrapper, ie Outer garment -- fisher's coat. see GREEK ependuomai. (ependuten) -- 1 Occurrence. 1902, 1903. ependutes. 1904 ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1903.htm - 6k Library Conclusion. The Lord's Last Days with his Disciples. Fear and Faith Rahab The Yoke of Christ. In Galilee. John xx. 24, 25 Book 8 Footnotes The Food of the World Appearance at Sea of Galilee. Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |