καταστολή (katastolē)
katastolē
attire/behaviour
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun katastolē literally refers to a garment or piece of attire, derived from a root meaning "to let down" or "lower." In the ancient world, this often described a long robe that was allowed to hang freely rather than being tucked up for labor. The word captures the physical reality of clothing, specifically dress that is modest and unadorned.
In its single New Testament occurrence at 1 Timothy 2:9, Paul uses the term to shift focus from external display to internal character. He instructs women to adorn themselves with proper attire, implying a style that is decent and appropriate for worship. The context suggests that what one wears should reflect a quiet spirit and good works, rather than seeking attention through elaborate fashion.
While the word primarily denotes clothing, it carries a secondary nuance of demeanor or behavior found in some Septuagint usage. By choosing this term, the text links outward appearance with inward steadiness. The attire itself becomes a visible marker of a restrained and respectful heart, connecting the physical act of dressing with the spiritual posture of the believer.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word for attire here points to a long robe worn loosely, rather than tight or adorned for show. In 1 Timothy 2:9, Paul uses this term to encourage a style of dress that is decent and appropriate. This instruction invites us to consider how our outward appearance reflects our inner peace and respect for others.
True beauty in the Christian life is not found in expensive jewelry or elaborate hairstyles. Instead, it is shown through a quiet spirit and good works. When we choose modesty, we signal that our value comes from who we are in Christ, not from what we wear. This simple act of dressing well becomes a witness to the world around us.
Let your daily choices reflect the grace you have received. By focusing on character rather than fashion, you create space for others to see the hope within you. May your life always point to the lasting beauty of a heart at rest in God.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- apparel1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- καταστολῇ1×
Key Verses
-
I Timothy 2:9
In the same way, that women also adorn themselves in decent clothing, with modesty and propriety, not with braided hair, gold, pearls, or expensive clothing,
This verse uses katastolē to define decent clothing as a visible marker of modesty and propriety, contrasting it with expensive adornments.