Strong’s Greek 3382 (μηρός) denotes the thigh—specifically the upper part of the leg between hip and knee. Scripture employs the image to convey physical power, covenant affirmation, and sovereign authority, culminating in the exalted disclosure of Christ’s kingship in Revelation 19:16.

Old Testament Foreshadowings

1. Covenant Oaths: In patriarchal culture, solemn vows were sealed by placing a hand under another’s thigh (Genesis 24:2–3; Genesis 47:29). This gesture linked the promise to posterity and invoked God as witness.
2. Divine Encounter and Weakness: Jacob’s wrestling with the Angel of the LORD left him limping, “the socket of Jacob’s hip was dislocated as he wrestled” (Genesis 32:25). The afflicted thigh reminded Israel that strength is received, not achieved.
3. Warrior Strength: Military idiom such as “gird your sword upon your thigh, O mighty one” (Psalm 45:3) pictures readiness for battle and noble vigor, anticipating Messiah’s warrior-king identity.

New Testament Usage

The term appears once: “And He has a name written on His robe and on His thigh: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS” (Revelation 19:16). John unites garment and thigh to display the Messiah’s public, incontestable dominion as He returns in triumph.

Christological Significance

• Visible Inscription: Ancient conquerors inscribed titles on banners or armor. Here, the Rider’s very person bears the declaration, portraying inherent rather than delegated authority (Isaiah 9:6–7).
• Covenant Fulfillment: The same anatomical location once invoked in patriarchal oaths now proclaims the final realization of God’s covenant promises in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20).
• Victorious Strength: Unlike Jacob who left the struggle weakened, the glorified Christ rides forth unscathed, demonstrating omnipotent power (Revelation 19:11–15).

Symbolism of the Thigh in Biblical Thought

1. Seat of Generative Power: Semitic idiom connects the thigh with progeny (“came from the loins,” Exodus 1:5). Jesus, the promised Seed, manifests perfect lineage and authority (Galatians 3:16).
2. Place of Binding Oath: The enthroned Christ seals the everlasting covenant in His own blood (Hebrews 13:20).
3. Strength and Readiness: Girded attire across the thigh denotes preparedness; the Lamb’s army follows “on white horses,” exhibiting the same readiness (Revelation 19:14).

Historical and Cultural Background

• Roman Triumphs: Victorious generals displayed titles and honors on flowing cloaks and even horse trappings. John’s readers would contrast such fleeting accolades with the Rider’s eternal inscription.
• Near-Eastern Iconography: Deities and kings depicted with weapons at the thigh symbolized martial supremacy; Revelation presents the true King wielding the “sharp sword” of His mouth (Revelation 19:15).

Implications for Worship and Ministry

• Proclamation: Preaching should exalt Christ’s universal sovereignty, echoing the title emblazoned on His thigh.
• Confidence: Believers draw courage from the image of an undefeatable Lord, emboldening mission and perseverance (Matthew 28:18–20).
• Holiness: The thigh’s association with covenant fidelity calls the church to integrity in vows—marriage, leadership, baptismal confession (Ecclesiastes 5:4–6; James 5:12).

Practical Application

• Personal Devotion: Meditate on Revelation 19:16 to foster awe and submission.
• Corporate Liturgy: Incorporate songs and readings that acclaim Christ as “King of Kings and Lord of Lords.”
• Ethical Living: Just as oaths at the thigh demanded truthfulness, let speech and conduct mirror the Rider’s righteous judgments (Revelation 19:11).

Relationship to Other Biblical Concepts

• Kingship: Connects with titles like “Son of David” (Matthew 21:9).
• Covenant: Parallels circumcision, another sign located in the body pointing to covenant grace (Genesis 17:11).
• Second Coming: Complements imagery of white horses, crowns, and sharp sword, composing a unified eschatological portrait.

Conclusion

Strong’s Greek 3382, though appearing only once in the New Testament, threads a rich tapestry: from patriarchal oaths and warrior strength to the climactic revelation of Jesus Christ’s unrivaled sovereignty. The inscription upon His thigh signals the irreversible fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan and summons every believer to reverent allegiance and expectant hope.