Lexical Summary katastolé: Attire, dress, clothing Original Word: καταστολή Strong's Exhaustive Concordance apparel. From katastello; a deposit, i.e. (specially) costume -- apparel. see GREEK katastello NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom katastelló Definition a garment NASB Translation clothing (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2689: καταστολήκαταστολή, καταστολης, ἡ (καταστέλλω, which see); 1. properly, a lowering, letting down; hence, 2. in Biblical Greek twice, a garment let down, dress, attire: 1 Timothy 2:9, Vulg.habitus, which the translator, according to later Latin usage, seems to understand of clothing (cf. the Frenchl'habit); (cf. Josephus, b. j. 2, 8, 4); for מַעֲטֶה, Isaiah 61:3, with which in mind Hesychius says καταστολήν. περιβολήν (cf. Winer's Grammar, 23, but especially Ellicott on 1 Timothy, the passage cited). Topical Lexicon Central Passage“Likewise, I want the women to adorn themselves with respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, as is proper for women who profess to worship God.” 1 Timothy 2:9-10 Occurrence and Context The noun καταστολή appears only here in the New Testament, nestled within Paul’s instructions for corporate worship (1 Timothy 2:1-15). The verse links outward clothing with the inner posture of modesty and self-control, setting a standard for congregational life in Ephesus and, by extension, for the church in every age. Semantic Field and Nuances Though translated “apparel,” the term points not merely to fabric but to an ordered, well-arranged ensemble that reflects restraint. Paul couples it with “modesty” (αἰδώς) and “self-control” (σωφροσύνη), showing that attire should flow from an attitude of reverence toward God and consideration for others. In ancient usage the word could carry overtones of demeanor; thus, respectful clothing and respectful bearing are inseparable. Historical and Cultural Background In the first-century Greco-Roman world, women of means often showcased social status through elaborate hairstyles, ornate jewelry, and luxurious garments. Such display served as public advertising of wealth and, at times, sensuality. Ephesus also housed the cult of Artemis, where extravagant dress was common during temple processions. Paul counters this cultural pressure by urging Christian women to embody a quiet, godly beauty distinguished by good works rather than conspicuous luxury. Theological Implications 1. Creation Order: Paul grounds his counsel in the created distinctions between male and female (1 Timothy 2:13). Proper attire supports rather than obscures those distinctions and honors God’s design. Intertextual Connections • Proverbs 31:30 sets the precedent: “Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” Practical Application for Ministry • Worship Settings: Leaders should encourage attire that directs attention to God rather than to the individual. This principle applies equally to men, though Paul addresses women in the Ephesian context. Pastoral Considerations Any teaching on clothing must be rooted in grace, avoiding legalism. The heart is primary; yet heart attitudes manifest visibly. Pastors should uphold biblical modesty while celebrating the creativity and diversity of God’s people, fostering congregations where outward appearance consistently supports reverent worship and gospel witness. Forms and Transliterations καταστολη καταστολή καταστολῇ καταστραγγιεί κατεστρατοπέδευσαν katastole katastolē katastolêi katastolē̂iLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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