στρώννυμι (strōnnumi)
strōnnumi
to spread
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 5 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb strōnnumi means to spread out or furnish a surface, typically with fabrics or coverings. In the New Testament, it appears only five times, primarily in the Synoptic Gospels, describing physical preparations for significant events.
Its most vivid usage occurs during Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Matthew 21:8 and Mark 11:8 record people spreading their outer garments on the road, a gesture of honor that echoes Old Testament customs. The word also describes the practical act of making a bed in Acts 9:34, where Peter commands Tabitha to rise and show her the prepared couch.
Additionally, it refers to preparing a room for the Last Supper. Mark 14:15 and Luke 22:12 mention a place already "spread" or furnished with carpets and couches. This usage highlights the word’s connection to setting up a space for hospitality or rest, transforming a bare area into one ready for use.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The Greek word strōnnumi captures the simple, physical act of spreading out a surface, whether it is laying down garments on a road or arranging furniture in a room. In the New Testament, this verb appears only five times, yet each instance carries significant weight. It moves beyond mere utility to become an expression of honor, hospitality, and restoration.
When crowds spread their cloaks before Jesus during His entry into Jerusalem, they were not just clearing a path; they were publicly acknowledging His kingship. This same word describes the preparation of a room for the Last Supper, highlighting how God values spaces set aside for fellowship. Even in Acts, Peter’s command to make a bed signals a return to normal life after illness.
For your faith, this word reminds us that God cares about the tangible details of our lives. Whether you are preparing a home for guests or seeking restoration after hardship, the act of 'spreading out' can be a quiet moment of trust and preparation.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 5 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- spread2×
- were spreading [them]1×
- were spreading1×
- furnished;1×
- furnished1×
- do make the bed1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἔστρωσαν2×
- ἐστρώννυον2×
- ἐστρωμένον·1×
- ἐστρωμένον1×
- στρῶσον1×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 21:8
A very great multitude spread their clothes on the road. Others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road.
This occurrence shows the word used as an act of royal homage, where the crowd spreads their garments to honor Jesus as King.
-
Mark 14:15
He will himself show you a large upper room furnished and ready. Get ready for us there.”
Here the term describes a room already furnished with couches, indicating preparation for the intimate setting of the Last Supper.
-
Acts 9:34
Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and make your bed!” Immediately he arose.
Peter uses this word to command Aeneas to rise and prepare his bed, linking the physical act to immediate healing and restoration.