[Greek] ἐνδύω (enduō), [Latin] induere, [Latin] vestire, [French] attirer: to clothe, to be clothed (sinking into a garment), to endow, to be endowed, to invest with clothing, to put on oneself, to put on, to dress oneself, to wear clothes, to endue, to enter into, to envelope in, to hide in; Lk. 15:22, Mt.6:25, Mk.1:6, Lk.8:27, Lk.24:49, Act. 12:21, Rom.13:12, 1Cor.15:53, Gal.;27, Eph.4:24, Col.3:10, 1Thess.5:8, Rev.1:13, 2Cor.5:3
Background Information:
Greek Hellenism: This term can mean to draw on something, to put on something, to clothe oneself with something, and to play the role of someone. This term was quite often used figuratively by the famous Greek writers and playwrights. Homer makes mention of one “clothed with strength.” Aristophanes makes mention of one “clothed with audacity.” Endymion, god of the Sun, refers to the sun setting (“clothed by night.”). Pythagoras, an advocate of reincarnation, believed that any soul could be “clothed” in a body.
Old Testament: This term is mostly used for and relates to the putting on of clothes. Other varied ways include to gird something, to wrap around, and to put (set). Girding becomes a frequent Old Testament reference for clothing someone. God often provides (clothes) for others in Genesis. Clothing someone becomes associated with attaining redeeming qualities as wisdom, judgment, and authority. In contrast, removal of such figurative clothing diminishes this status. The Spirit of the Lord enveloped Gideon (Jdg 6:34). I wear my honesty like a garment (Job 29:14). Your priests will be clothed with justice (Psa.13:9). God made coats of skins and clothed them (Gen.3:21). With your loins girded (Ex.12:11). She is clothed with strength and dignity (Prov.31:25). Moses stripped Aaron of his garments and put them on his son Eleazar (Num20:28). If you strive after justice, you will attain it, and put in on like a splendid robe (Sir. 27:8).
New Testament: This term is both used literally and figuratively in the New Testament. Perhaps, the most noticeable literal example refers to the father who provides a robe for his prodigal (wayward) son. Interestingly, this term is used quite extensively in a metaphorical sense. Such metaphorical examples refer to protection, desirable qualities, Christ, and the heavenly habitation (new self). This is the means by which God will prepare us for our heavenly habitation. In a sense, by being clothed by the Holy Spirit, we will be cleansed from our fallen human nature.
Scripture:
“But his father ordered his servants, ‘Quickly bring the finest robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.’” Lk.15:22
This is famous story of the prodigal son, who is welcomed back by his father. It has been said the father represents God the Father who shows unconditional love.
“For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” Gal.3:27
In a sense, one becomes a new creation in Christ when one is baptized. This attains equality in the view of God.
“Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil.” Eph.6:11
This metaphorical sense provides the means to protect oneself against the corrupt way of the world.
Conclusion:
Endue, endowment, endow, vestment
It was interesting to discover the frequent figurative (and metaphorical) uses of this term in ancient Greek literature. This is seen in as a characteristic of Hellenistic literature.
I was surprised that the Old Testament culture also frequently used the figurative sense of this term. It would also be interesting to determine if this in fact had been attributed to Hellenism. This figurative sense seeks to further illustrate aspects of God.
Most of the literal uses of this term are actually found in the synoptic gospels. Perhaps, the most notable example refers to the father welcoming and clothing his wayward son. Luke, who understood Greek, was influenced by Hellenism. Luke uses this term in a figurative sense. The majority of the figurative uses of this term occur in the non-synoptic books written by Paul. Paul was a Roman who wrote to the communities in the Mediterranean region. Paul also understood Hellenistic literary references.
Endue, not frequently used in everyday communication, refers to being clothed. In addition to being literally used, this can also be figuratively used in sense of being clothed with power or authority. An endowment is a charitable gift given to a person or organization. This term was first used in the 1590’s.
Update: Just this past Thursday (May 31), my niece Amanda was selected as the winner in an essay contest on why she needs a car. As a result, she won a refurbished car from from a local non-profit organization (and auto repair facility)! Rather than sinking into a garment, Amanda will now be sinking into leather seats as she drives to college.