[Greek] ἀμφιάζω (amphiazō), [Latin] vestire, [French] areer: to clothe, to adorn; Mt.6:30, Mt.11:8, Lk.7:25, Lk.12:28
John the Baptist wears the simple garments (animal skins) of a prophet.
Background information:
Greek Hellenism: This term, meaning to clothe, can be used literally and metaphorically. Homer’s Odyssey 10.542 states “Round about me then she cast a cloak and tunic as raiment, and the nymph clothed herself in a long white robe, finely woven and beautiful.” Plato’s Republic 457a states “The women of the guardians must strip, since they will be clothed with virtue as a garment, and must take their part with the men and the other duties of civic guardianship.” Homer’s Iliad 20.150 states “There Poseidon and the other gods sate them down and clothed their shoulders round about with a cloud that might not be rent.”
Old Testament: This term means to cover, to do things secretly, to clothe, and to put on. Literal examples include loin skins, garments, fine linen, robes, sackcloths, dust, worm, and chain mail (armor). Metaphorical examples include salvation, shame, righteousness, glory, dishonor, and majesty. Psa.65:13 makes reference to pastures clothed with flocks.
New Testament: This term means to clothe, to dress, or to adorn. Jesus brings up the subject of having dependence (trust) in God. Jesus addresses those disciples (and us) having little faith in God. If God can clothe the grass of the field, how much more so will God provide for us. Jesus also speaks of John the Baptist as a simple messenger who is preparing the way for Him. Jesus defines His relationship to John the Baptist. Rather than wearing fine clothing, John wears sackcloth and animal skins.
Scripture:
“If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will He not much more provide for you, O you of little faith.” Mt. 6:30
Jesus was address those disciples who had little faith and trust. He points out God will provide for us who are more important than the grass.
“Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those who wear fine clothing are in royal places.” Mt.11:18
John the Baptist becomes the one who prepares the way for Jesus. John wears the simple clothing of a prophet.
Etymology: The archaic word raiment comes from the French verb areer. An array can include equipment, furnishings, or clothing. An investiture is a ceremony of putting on the clothing in insignia of office. To invest is to borrow or cover one’s contribution into something. To divest is to strip of one’s clothes or investment.
Conclusion:
Vest, investiture, vestment, array, arrangement
It was interesting to discover that this term is related to that archaic word raiment (clothing). The metaphoric uses refer to being clothed in righteousness and with clouds.
In the Old Testament, this term is used extensively. I was surprised by the many metaphorical uses of this term. The Israelites covertly or undercover worshiped idols.
In the New Testament, the disciples, like many of us, often have little faith (trust). To be honest, you also can count me in during those times when we go through struggles and difficulties. It is often like: “God, you’re killing me here. When will these struggles stop?” I myself need to keep working on this. John the Baptist follows the example of the Old Testament prophet covered in animal skins.
That just about covers it with this post.