The verb chagar means to gird up — to fasten or bind a belt or sash around one's waist. In the ancient Near East, girding was a preparatory act: one would tuck one's robe into a belt to free the legs for strenuous activity, battle, or service. Warriors girded on their swords; servants girded themselves to work; mourners put on sackcloth as a form of girding.
Girding in Scripture carries profound metaphorical and theological weight. God is described as girding himself with power and majesty (Psalm 65:6; 93:1). The servant leader girds himself to serve — as Jesus did when he wrapped a towel around himself to wash his disciples' feet (John 13:4). Paul uses the image of girding in the armor of God (Ephesians 6:14): 'Stand firm, then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist.' Spiritual readiness and strength begin with being properly girded.