Braids
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Definition and Cultural Context:
Braids, also known as plaits, are a form of hairstyle where three or more strands of hair are interwoven. In ancient times, braiding was a common practice across various cultures, including those in the biblical lands. Braids were often used to signify social status, wealth, and even religious devotion. In the context of the Bible, braids are mentioned in relation to personal adornment and cultural practices.

Biblical References:

1. 1 Timothy 2:9 : "Likewise, I want the women to adorn themselves with respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes." This verse is part of the Apostle Paul's instructions to Timothy regarding conduct in worship. Paul emphasizes modesty and self-control, suggesting that women should not focus on outward adornment, such as braided hair, which could be seen as a display of wealth or vanity.

2. 1 Peter 3:3 : "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment such as braided hair or gold jewelry or fine clothes." Similar to Paul's instruction, Peter advises women to prioritize inner beauty over external appearances. The mention of braided hair here is indicative of the cultural practices of the time, where elaborate hairstyles were often associated with social status.

3. Judges 16:13-19 : The account of Samson and Delilah includes a reference to braiding. Delilah weaves the seven locks of Samson's hair into a loom. While not a direct reference to braids as a hairstyle, this passage highlights the cultural significance of hair and its symbolic power in biblical narratives.

Theological Implications:
In the biblical context, the mention of braids is often associated with the broader theme of modesty and the inner versus outer beauty. The emphasis is on the heart and character rather than external appearances. The biblical authors caution against allowing hairstyles or adornments to become a source of pride or distraction from one's spiritual life.

Historical and Cultural Insights:
In ancient Near Eastern cultures, hairstyles, including braids, were often elaborate and could signify various things, such as marital status, age, or wealth. Braiding was a skill passed down through generations and was an integral part of grooming and personal care. The biblical admonitions against focusing on braided hair reflect a concern that such practices could lead to vanity or detract from one's devotion to God.

Practical Application:
For contemporary readers, the biblical references to braids serve as a reminder to prioritize spiritual virtues over physical appearance. While braiding hair is not inherently wrong, the focus should remain on cultivating a heart that reflects godliness and humility. The biblical texts encourage believers to consider how their outward appearance aligns with their inner spiritual life and witness to others.
Library

A Strong Man who Lost his Strength
... Samson, "So far you have deceived me and lied to me; tell me now with what you can
be bound fast." He said to her, "If you should weave the seven braids on my ...
//christianbookshelf.org/sherman/the childrens bible/a strong man who lost.htm

Against Excessive Fondness for Jewels and Gold Ornaments.
... Most admirably, therefore, the blessed Peter [1568] says, "In like manner also,
that women adorn themselves not with braids, or gold, or costly array, but ...
/.../the instructor paedagogus/chapter xiiiagainst excessive fondness for.htm

In the Desert
... take it as a peace-offering from my hands and wear it always?" She bent toward him
and, with worshiping hands, he put aside the loosened braids and clasped the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter xix in the desert.htm

The First Epistle of St. Peter
... 3 You are not to adorn yourselves on the outside with braids of hair and ornaments
of gold and changes of dress, ^4 but inside, in the heart, with the ...
/.../moffat/the general epistles james peter and judas/the first epistle of st.htm

Imperial Tombs.
... various sizes and shapes, there was a wedding-casket with bas-reliefs representing
the bride and groom crowned with wreaths of myrtle; she, with braids of hair ...
/.../lanciani/pagan and christian rome/chapter iv imperial tombs.htm

Thesaurus
Braids (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Braids (2 Occurrences). Judges 16:13 Delilah said
to Samson, "Until now, you have mocked me and told me lies. ...
/b/braids.htm - 7k

Braiding (1 Occurrence)
... 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Braid. 2. (n.) The act of making or using braids. 3. (n.)
Braids, collectively; trimming. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. ...
/b/braiding.htm - 7k

Lace (7 Occurrences)
... with anything resembling laces. 6. (vt) To adorn with narrow strips or braids
of some decorative material; as, cloth laced with silver. ...
/l/lace.htm - 10k

Platter (20 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (n.) One who plats or braids. 2. (n.) A large plate
or shallow dish on which meat or other food is brought to the table. Int. ...
/p/platter.htm - 15k

Brake (80 Occurrences)

/b/brake.htm - 34k

Resources
Why did blood and water come out of Jesus' side when He was pierced? | GotQuestions.org

What is Rastafarianism? | GotQuestions.org

Why does the Bible speak against braided hair? | GotQuestions.org

Braids: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible ConcordanceBible DictionaryBible EncyclopediaTopical BibleBible Thesuarus
Concordance
Braids (2 Occurrences)

Judges 16:13
Delilah said to Samson, "Until now, you have mocked me and told me lies. Tell me with what you might be bound." He said to her, "If you weave the seven locks of my head with the web."
(See NIV)

Judges 16:19
She made him sleep on her knees; and she called for a man, and shaved off the seven locks of his head; and she began to afflict him, and his strength went from him.
(See NIV)

Subtopics

Braids

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Braiding
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