ὑποστρώννυμι (hupostrōnnumi)
hupostrōnnumi
to spread
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The verb hupostrōnnumi means to spread or strew something underneath, typically on the ground. It is a compound word formed from hupo ("under") and a root related to spreading or laying down materials like straw or branches. In Scripture, it describes the physical act of preparing a path by covering the earth with vegetation.
This word appears only once in the New Testament, in Luke 19:36, during the triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The crowd spread their cloaks and cut branches from the trees, laying them on the road as Jesus rode forward. This specific usage connects the action to ancient customs of honoring a king or significant guest by clearing and beautifying the way ahead.
The term highlights a gesture of preparation and honor. By covering the ground with greenery and garments, the people were not just making a path but creating a royal carpet for their leader. The image is one of active, physical devotion, turning a dusty road into a place of respect through simple, tangible acts.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word hupostrōnnumi describes a simple but powerful act of laying something down to prepare a way for another person. In Luke 19:36, we see people spreading their cloaks on the road as Jesus rode into Jerusalem. This was not just about making a path; it was a gesture of deep honor and submission. They gave up what they needed for themselves to create a place of respect for Him.
For your faith, this reminds us that following Jesus often involves tangible acts of devotion. It is not always about grand gestures or complex rituals. Sometimes it is as simple as clearing the way in your heart for His guidance. When we lay down our own plans and preferences, we make room for His presence to lead us forward.
May you find joy in these small, physical ways of showing love to Christ. Whether through prayer, service, or quiet obedience, every act of preparation honors Him. Let your life be a path where others can see His peace and kindness walking with you.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- they were spreading1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὑπεστρώννυον1×
Key Verses
-
Luke 19:36
As he went, they spread their cloaks on the road.
This verse captures the unique NT usage where the crowd physically spread their cloaks to honor Jesus as He entered Jerusalem.