From peri (around) and zōnnumi (to gird). To gird around, to wrap a belt or garment around the waist. Symbolically represents preparation for action, service, and spiritual readiness.
Jesus girded himself with a towel to wash His disciples' feet (John 13:4) — the Lord of glory taking on the role of the lowest servant. Peter instructs believers to 'gird up the loins of your mind' (1 Peter 1:13 KJV) — prepare mentally for action. Ephesians 6:14 includes the belt of truth as part of God's armor. Girding is both humble service and battle readiness — the Christian life demands both.