Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the use of cosmetics and adornments is mentioned in various contexts, reflecting cultural practices and attitudes towards beauty and personal appearance. The Bible provides insights into how cosmetics were perceived and utilized, often highlighting the moral and spiritual implications associated with their use.Historical Context and Usage Cosmetics in the ancient Near East, including the regions described in the Bible, were commonly used for enhancing physical appearance. This included the application of oils, perfumes, and makeup. The use of such items was not limited to women; men also engaged in grooming practices. The Bible references the use of cosmetics in several passages, indicating their prevalence in daily life. Biblical References One of the earliest mentions of cosmetics is found in 2 Kings 9:30, where Jezebel is described as painting her eyes and adorning her head: "When Jehu came to Jezreel, Jezebel heard about it. So she painted her eyes, arranged her hair, and looked out of a window." This passage illustrates the use of cosmetics as a means of enhancing appearance, though Jezebel's actions are often interpreted negatively due to her association with idolatry and immorality. In Isaiah 3:16-24, the prophet Isaiah speaks against the daughters of Zion, criticizing their haughty demeanor and excessive adornment: "The Lord says: 'Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, walking with heads held high and wanton eyes, prancing and skipping as they go, jingling their bracelets, the Lord will bring sores on the heads of the daughters of Zion, and the Lord will make their foreheads bare.'" This passage suggests a divine disapproval of vanity and pride associated with excessive use of cosmetics and adornments. Ezekiel 23:40 also references the use of cosmetics in the context of idolatry and unfaithfulness: "Furthermore, you sent for men who came from afar; when they arrived, you bathed yourself for them, painted your eyes, and adorned yourself with jewelry." Here, cosmetics are linked to seduction and infidelity, reinforcing a negative connotation. Cultural and Spiritual Implications The use of cosmetics in the Bible is often intertwined with themes of vanity, pride, and moral decay. While the Bible does not explicitly prohibit the use of cosmetics, it frequently associates their use with negative behaviors and attitudes. The emphasis is placed on inner beauty and the condition of the heart rather than outward appearance. 1 Peter 3:3-4 advises women on the importance of inner beauty: "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment such as braided hair or gold jewelry or fine clothes, but from the inner disposition of your heart, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight." This passage underscores the biblical principle that true beauty is found in one's character and spiritual life rather than in physical appearance. Conclusion The biblical perspective on cosmetics reflects a broader concern with the values and priorities of the heart. While cosmetics and adornments were part of the cultural fabric of biblical times, the scriptures consistently call for a focus on inner beauty and godliness, warning against the dangers of vanity and pride. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) An external application intended to beautify and improve the appearance.Greek 2889. kosmos -- order, the world ... [The English term "cosmetic" is derived from 2889 , ie the ("ensemble") used of treating the face as a whole.]. Word Origin a prim. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2889.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 7163. qeren hap-puwk -- "horn of antimony," a daughter of Job... Keren-happuch From qeren and puwk; horn of cosmetic; Keren-hap-Puk, one of Job's daughters -- Keren-happuch. see HEBREW qeren. see HEBREW puwk. 7162, 7163. ... /hebrew/7163.htm - 5k Library The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea Thesaurus Cosmetic (1 Occurrence)... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) An external application intended to beautify and improve the appearance. Multi-Version Concordance Cosmetic (1 Occurrence). ... /c/cosmetic.htm - 6k Oil (281 Occurrences) Paint (3 Occurrences) Kerenhappuch (1 Occurrence) Keren-happuch (1 Occurrence) Wash (105 Occurrences) Fair (147 Occurrences) Cream (5 Occurrences) Cosmetics (3 Occurrences) Cosam (1 Occurrence) Resources What does the Bible say about a Christian having plastic / cosmetic surgery? | GotQuestions.orgCan a Christian woman consider getting breast implants / breast augmentation? | GotQuestions.org Questions about Life Decisions (All) | GotQuestions.org Cosmetic: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Cosmetic (1 Occurrence)2 Samuel 14:2 Subtopics Related Terms |
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