σποδῷ [2 verses](noun sg fem dat ) "Ashes" is spodos, which means "wood ashes" and, more generally, "dust." It was rubbed on sackcloth as a sign of mourning.  - "Ashes" is a word that means "wood ashes" and, more generally, "dust." It was rubbed on sackcloth as a sign of mourning. this is not a common term for Christ to use.