ABSTRACT
Embodiment is at the heart of Syrian theology and anthropology. In the early Syrian tradition, human redemption is predominantly articulated through typology and symbolism. This chapter explores how clothing imagery is used within the Syrian tradition to exegete the incarnation of Christ and the salvation of Adam, through the birth, baptism and resurrection of Christ. Several key incidents involving Christ's ministry to women use clothing. The plethora of images associated with Mary and the annunciation lay the groundwork for 'clothed in the body' being the key metaphor for the incarnation used by Syrian writers at this time. The range of material associated with clothing metaphors in early Syrian writings from exegesis of Genesis to the eschatological significance of the robe of glory shared by Christ and man testifies to the centrality of this metaphor within the tradition.
