In biblical times, clothing was not only functional but also held significant cultural and symbolic meaning. The term "cape" as understood in modern fashion does not directly appear in the Bible; however, garments that served similar purposes, such as cloaks or mantles, are frequently mentioned and hold considerable importance in biblical narratives.

Biblical References and Symbolism

1. Mantles and Cloaks: The mantle or cloak was a common outer garment in biblical times, often used for warmth and protection against the elements. It was typically a large piece of cloth that could be wrapped around the body. In the Berean Standard Bible, the mantle is mentioned in several key passages, often symbolizing authority or prophetic office.

· Elijah and Elisha: One of the most notable references to a mantle is found in the account of Elijah and Elisha. In 1 Kings 19:19, Elijah throws his mantle over Elisha, symbolizing the transfer of prophetic authority. Later, in 2 Kings 2:13-14, Elisha picks up Elijah's mantle after Elijah is taken up to heaven, signifying the continuation of Elijah's prophetic ministry: "Elisha also picked up the cloak that had fallen from Elijah, and he went back and stood on the bank of the Jordan."

2. Symbol of Authority and Protection: The cloak or mantle often symbolized authority and protection. In Ruth 3:9, Ruth asks Boaz to spread his cloak over her, which is a request for protection and a symbol of a marriage proposal: "I am your servant Ruth, she said. Spread the corner of your garment over me, for you are a kinsman-redeemer."

3. Garments of the Priests: The garments worn by the priests, including the ephod and robe, were detailed and symbolic, representing their sacred duties and the holiness required in their service to God. While not capes in the modern sense, these garments served a similar function in denoting status and role within the community.

4. New Testament References: In the New Testament, cloaks are mentioned in the context of everyday life and teachings of Jesus. For instance, in Matthew 5:40, Jesus teaches about non-retaliation and generosity: "If someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well."

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Israel, clothing was an important indicator of social status and identity. The materials, colors, and styles of garments could signify wealth, position, and even religious devotion. Wool and linen were common materials, and garments were often dyed in various colors, with purple being particularly associated with royalty and wealth.

The cloak or mantle was not only practical but also a significant personal possession. It could be used as a blanket at night, and losing one's cloak could mean exposure to the elements and vulnerability. This is reflected in the legal protections found in the Mosaic Law, such as in Exodus 22:26-27, which commands that a cloak taken as a pledge must be returned by sunset.

Spiritual Lessons

The use of cloaks and mantles in the Bible often carries deeper spiritual lessons. They remind believers of the importance of humility, service, and the passing on of spiritual authority and responsibility. The accounts of Elijah and Elisha, in particular, highlight the continuity of God's work through successive generations and the importance of faithful discipleship.

In summary, while the Bible does not specifically mention "capes" as understood today, the concept of cloaks and mantles plays a significant role in biblical narratives, symbolizing authority, protection, and the transfer of spiritual responsibility. These garments serve as powerful symbols of God's provision and the responsibilities entrusted to His people.

Of their Capes.
... Prolegomena. Chapter VI. Of their Capes. Next they cover their necks and
shoulders with a narrow cape, aiming at modesty of dress ...
/.../cassian/the works of john cassian /chapter vi of their capes.htm

The Invitation: to Tom Hughes
... Though we try no ventures Desperate or strange; Feed on commonplaces In a narrow
range; Never sought for Franklin Round the frozen Capes; Even, with Macdougall ...
/.../kingsley/andromeda and other poems/the invitation to tom hughes.htm

Loving Shepherd of Thy Sheep
... Processional Pastor Amans Miss JE Leeson (1807-1882) Adaptation of a Litany
Melody from Catholic Hymntunes (Publ.1819; JMCapes). Moderato. ...
/.../the st gregory hymnal and catholic choir book/no 45 loving shepherd of.htm

History of the Period
... Monographs by Auer, 1855, Mangold, 1862, Semisch, 1862, L?�bker, 1864; Capes, University
Life in Ancient Athens, 1877, Sievers, Leben des Libanius, 1868.(b ...
/.../athanasius/select works and letters or athanasius/section 4 history of the.htm

Egypt and Greece.
... Greece was a picturesque and ever-changing scene of mountains and valleys; of
precipitous cliffs, winding beaches, rocky capes, and lofty headlands. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/abbott/xerxes/chapter ii egypt and greece.htm

Changed Conditions
... that Hwochow boasts. The Tai-tais were dressed in black, relieved by fancy
crochet work shoulder capes, of varied hues. The teacups ...
/.../the fulfilment of a dream of pastor hsis/chapter xx changed conditions.htm

Peter of Chelcic, 1419-1450.
... They did harm to all men. They set their minds on worldly glory, and spent their
money on extravagant dress. "The men," said he, "wear capes reaching down to ...
/.../hutton/history of the moravian church/chapter iv peter of chelcic.htm

The Works of John Cassian.
... Of the Tunics of the Egyptians. Chapter V. Of their Cords. Chapter VI. Of their
Capes. Chapter VII. Of the Sheepskin and the Goatskin. Chapter VIII. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/cassian/the works of john cassian /

The Nile and Egypt
... reduced to such small dimensions as those represented in these drawings of what
I believe to be the Egyptian cloak, I way cite our cavalry capes, when rolled ...
/.../chapter i the nile and egypt.htm

Capes (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Capes (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 3:22 the fine
robes, the capes, the cloaks, the purses, (WEB NIV). ...
/c/capes.htm - 6k

Ladder (1 Occurrence)
... These are capes jutting westward into the sea from the ridge which runs parallel
to the general line of the coast. These capes project ...
/l/ladder.htm - 10k

Tyre (59 Occurrences)
... These are capes jutting westward into the sea from the ridge which runs parallel
to the general line of the coast. These capes project ...
/t/tyre.htm - 45k

Caper'na-um (16 Occurrences)
Caper'na-um. Capernaum, Caper'na-um. Capes . ... John 6:59 These things he said
in a synagogue, teaching in Capernaum; (See RSV). Capernaum, Caper'na-um. Capes...
/c/caper'na-um.htm - 10k

Purses (4 Occurrences)
... lips shut tight makes evil come about. (See NIV). Isaiah 3:22 the fine robes,
the capes, the cloaks, the purses, (WEB YLT NAS NIV). ...
/p/purses.htm - 7k

Chops (2 Occurrences)
... 2. (n. pl.) The sides or capes at the mouth of a river, channel, harbor, or bay;
as, the chops of the English Channel. Multi-Version Concordance ...
/c/chops.htm - 7k

Cloaks (13 Occurrences)
... is king." (See NIV). Isaiah 3:22 the fine robes, the capes, the cloaks,
the purses, (WEB JPS NAS RSV NIV). Daniel 3:21 Then these ...
/c/cloaks.htm - 9k

Caph (1 Occurrence)

/c/caph.htm - 6k

Achaia (11 Occurrences)
... 1854); Klatt, Forschungen zur Geschichte des achaischen Bundes (Berlin, 1877); M.
Dubois, Les ligues etolienne et acheenne (Paris, 1855); Capes, History of the ...
/a/achaia.htm - 13k

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