From G2068 (ennumi, to put on). A garment or article of clothing โ particularly fine or notable clothing. Used of the angel's dazzling apparel at the resurrection (Luke 24:4), of Herod's royal robes (Acts 12:21), and of the rich man's fine clothing (James 2:2-3).
The New Testament's use of esthes reveals a theology of clothing as identity. The angels at the empty tomb wore 'shining garments' (esthes) โ clothing that proclaimed resurrection victory (Luke 24:4). Herod arrayed himself in royal esthes and accepted worship โ and was struck dead (Acts 12:21-23). James warns against honoring the man in 'goodly apparel' (esthes) while dishonoring the poor (James 2:2-3). The pattern: clothing reveals what we worship. Those clothed by God radiate glory; those who clothe themselves in self-glory invite judgment. The final esthes in Scripture is the 'fine linen, clean and white' given to the saints (Rev 19:8).