χλαμύς (chlamus)
chlamus
robe
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 2 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The noun chlamus refers to a short, outer cloak or mantle, typically worn over a tunic. Unlike the longer undergarment, this piece of clothing was practical and mobile, designed for quick movement in various conditions.
Lexical sources highlight that this garment was particularly associated with soldiers, military officers, magistrates, and kings. Its association with authority and martial readiness gives it a distinct character compared to ordinary civilian dress.
In the New Testament, this word appears only twice, both in Matthew 27. It describes the robe placed on Jesus by Roman soldiers during his mockery before the crucifixion (Matthew 27:28, 31). The choice of this specific military-style cloak underscores the irony of the scene, where a king is clothed in the gear of a soldier to be ridiculed.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word chlamys describes a short, practical cloak often worn by soldiers or those in authority. In the New Testament, it appears only twice, both in Matthew 27. Here, Roman soldiers place this military-style garment on Jesus before his crucifixion. This act was meant to mock him as a king, using the very attire of imperial power to ridicule his claim to rule.
Yet this moment reveals a deeper truth. While the soldiers intended shame, they unwittingly highlighted Jesus’ true identity. He is the King who wears the cloak of authority, not for conquest, but for sacrifice. The garment that signified worldly power becomes the covering for the one who brings spiritual freedom. This irony invites us to see how God often uses human cruelty to accomplish his good purposes.
Your faith rests in this same King. He did not cling to earthly glory but accepted humiliation to save you. When life feels unjust or mocking, remember that Jesus understands suffering. His crown of thorns and the soldiers' robe point to a love that endures all shame for your sake.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 2 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- robe1×
- a robe1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- χλαμύδα2×
Key Verses
-
Matthew 27:28
They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him.
This verse marks the moment the soldiers dress Jesus in the chlamys, using a military garment to mock his claim to kingship.
-
Matthew 27:31
When they had mocked him, they took the robe off him, and put his clothes on him, and led him away to crucify him.
Here the robe is removed, signaling the end of the mockery and the transition to the actual crucifixion.