διαζώννυμι (diazōnnumi)
diazōnnumi
to tie around
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 3 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb diazōnnumi means to gird or bind tightly around, specifically with a belt or sash. In the New Testament, it appears only three times, all within the Gospel of John. This rarity makes its usage in these specific passages particularly significant for understanding the narrative’s physical details.
The word carries a sense of thoroughness due to its prefix dia-, suggesting binding all around rather than loosely tying. It describes the action of securing clothing for work or readiness. For instance, Jesus girds Himself with a towel before washing the disciples’ feet in John 13:4-5, an act of humble service that requires practical preparation. Similarly, Peter recognizes Jesus by the shore in John 21:7, where he girds his outer garment to swim toward Him.
This action contrasts with casual dressing; it implies purpose and readiness for a task. The physical act of tying a belt signals a shift from rest to activity. By using this specific term, the Gospel writer highlights the deliberate nature of Jesus’ service and Peter’s eager response, grounding spiritual lessons in tangible, everyday actions.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word diazōnnumi describes the simple, physical act of tying a belt or sash tightly around the waist. In the New Testament, this specific action appears only three times, all within the Gospel of John. It is not a decorative gesture but a practical preparation for work or movement. When someone girds themselves, they are securing loose clothing to move freely and serve without hindrance.
In John 13:4, Jesus performs this act before washing the disciples' feet. By wrapping a towel around His waist, He prepares for humble service, showing that spiritual leadership often involves getting down to practical tasks. This detail grounds the profound lesson of servanthood in a tangible, everyday action.
Similarly, in John 21:7, Peter girds his outer garment before jumping into the sea to reach Jesus. His quick response shows eagerness and readiness to meet his Lord. These moments remind us that faith often requires practical preparation and a willing heart to serve or respond immediately to God's call.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 3 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- put on1×
- having girded himself.1×
- He girded1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- διέζωσεν1×
- διεζώσατο,1×
- διεζωσμένος.¶1×
Key Verses
-
John 13:4
arose from supper, and laid aside his outer garments. He took a towel and wrapped a towel around his waist.
This verse marks the physical preparation Jesus makes for humble service, highlighting that His leadership involves practical acts of care.
-
John 21:7
That disciple therefore whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It’s the Lord!” So when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he wrapped his coat around himself (for he was naked), and threw himself into the sea.
Peter's action here shows his immediate readiness and eagerness to respond to Jesus' presence, contrasting with his earlier hesitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does diazōnnumi mean in the Bible?
Why is this word significant in John's Gospel?
How does Jesus use this action in John 13?
Every Occurrence (3 verses across 1 books)
John 3 verses
arose from supper, and laid aside his outer garments. He took a towel and wrapped a towel around his waist.
John 13:5Then he poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was…
John 21:7That disciple therefore whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It’s the Lord!” So when Simon Peter heard that it was the…