ποδήρης
podḗrēs
G4158 substantive adjective
SILEX Entry
Definition
A garment or robe that extends to or covers the ankles; specifically, an ankle-length outer garment. In context, the term refers to a type of long robe, typically associated with formal, ceremonial, or priestly attire, and not an everyday tunic. The word most often implies length rather than fabric, style, or function.
Semantic Range
ankle-length robe, long garment, priestly robe, ceremonial outer garment, foot-length garment
Root / Etymology
Formed from πούς ('foot') and a formative suffix, likely -ηρής (comparative to similar Greek adjective forms indicating 'reaching to' or 'covering' a body part). The specific suffix's derivation is debated, but the sense is 'reaching down to the foot/ankle.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
Attested in Hellenistic and early Roman-period writings, notably the Septuagint (Ex 28:4 translating Hebrew מְעִיל) and the New Testament (Revelation 1:13). In the Septuagint, ποδήρης commonly renders Hebrew terms for the long priestly robe, emphasizing ceremonial significance. In the New Testament, its use in Revelation describes exalted or heavenly figures and denotes dignity or high standing. English renderings like 'garment down to the foot' or 'ankle-length robe' are literal but may obscure sociocultural associations of status and role. Not used for typical daywear or tunics, but rather for special garb indicating honor, office, or sacred function. The term does not specify material or decoration—only the length. In non-biblical Greek, forms are rare and mainly used poetically or as technical description of length.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from πούς and another element of uncertain affinity; a dress (ἐσθής implied) reaching the ankles:--garment down to the foot.
Root Family
ποδήρης (podērēs) — foot, reaching to the feet, ankle-length garment
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4158-01 |
ποδήρη | podere | ADJ.S ACC M SG |
robe | ankle-length robe | in an ankle-length robe | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G4158-01 |
Revelation 1:13 | ποδήρη | podere | ADJ.S ACC M SG |
robe | ankle-length robe | in an ankle-length robe |