Lexical Summary simikinthion: Linen cloth, fine linen garment Original Word: σιμικίνθιον Strong's Exhaustive Concordance apron. Of Latin origin; a semicinctium or half-girding, i.e. Narrow covering (apron) -- apron. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originof Latin origin Definition (a workman's) apron NASB Translation aprons (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 4612: σιμικίνθιονσιμικίνθιον (or σημικίνθιον), σιμικινθιου, τό, (Latinsemicinctium (cf. Rich, Dict. of Antiq., under the word), from semi and cingo), a narrow apron, or linen covering, which workmen and servants were accustomed to wear: Acts 19:12 (A. V. aprons). Topical Lexicon Occurrence in the New Testament Strong’s Greek 4612 appears once, in Acts 19:12, describing “handkerchiefs” that had touched Paul and were then brought to the sick: “So that even handkerchiefs or aprons that had touched his skin were carried to the sick, and their diseases left them and the evil spirits departed” (Acts 19:12). Historical and Cultural Background In the first-century Greco-Roman world, cloths used for wiping perspiration or covering the head were common among laborers and travelers. Ephesus, the setting of Acts 19, was a bustling commercial and religious hub where amulets and magic scrolls abounded (Acts 19:19). The Spirit’s choice to use ordinary work garments in that city underscored that divine power alone—rather than any occult object—brought healing. Theological Significance 1. Validation of Apostolic Authority The extraordinary miracles in Ephesus authenticated Paul’s ministry, demonstrating that the risen Christ continued His works through His apostle (compare Mark 16:20; 2 Corinthians 12:12). Scripture records various conduits for healing—Moses’ bronze serpent (Numbers 21:8-9), Elijah’s cloak (2 Kings 2:8), Peter’s shadow (Acts 5:15). Handkerchiefs from Paul fit this pattern, revealing that God is free to employ humble means to accomplish His purposes. In a city steeped in magic, the instantaneous departure of diseases and demons proclaimed the supremacy of Jesus Christ over every spiritual power (Ephesians 1:20-23). Comparisons with Old Testament Miracles Elijah’s mantle (2 Kings 2:14) and Elisha’s staff (2 Kings 4:29) illustrate how God sometimes attaches miraculous efficacy to objects linked with His prophets. Each instance, including Paul’s handkerchiefs, points beyond the object to the word and presence of God. Practical Ministry Applications • Encouragement for Believers: God can employ the commonplace—our occupations, possessions, and daily contacts—for kingdom impact. Warnings Against Superstition Neither Acts nor the broader New Testament endorses merchandising or venerating cloths. When the Ephesians burned their magic books (Acts 19:19), they renounced manipulation of spiritual forces. Likewise, believers must reject any attempt to domesticate God’s power through objects or formulas (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Christological Perspective The healings ultimately testify to the compassion and authority of Jesus, who “went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil” (Acts 10:38). By extending His ministry through Paul, Christ revealed His ongoing presence with the church (Matthew 28:20), affirming that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Summary Strong’s 4612, though appearing only once, opens a window onto God’s mission in a pagan metropolis, showing that the gospel both confronts darkness and brings wholeness. The narrative calls the church to proclaim Christ confidently, depend on the Spirit’s power, and guard against superstitious distortions of God’s gracious works. Forms and Transliterations σιμικινθια σιμικίνθια simikinthia simikínthiaLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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