Coverlets, in the context of biblical times, refer to bed coverings or blankets used for warmth and comfort. These items, while seemingly mundane, are mentioned in Scripture and can provide insight into the daily life and customs of ancient cultures.

Biblical References:

One of the primary references to coverlets in the Bible is found in Proverbs 7:16, where the seductress describes her bed: "I have decked my bed with coverings, with colored linens from Egypt." . This verse highlights the use of coverlets as part of an enticing and luxurious setting, indicating that such items were considered valuable and possibly imported, as suggested by the mention of Egyptian linens.

In the broader biblical narrative, coverlets and similar items are often associated with wealth and status. The use of fine linens and elaborate bed coverings would have been a sign of prosperity and comfort, contrasting with the more austere living conditions of the common people.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, textiles were a significant part of daily life and trade. The production of textiles, including coverlets, was a labor-intensive process that involved spinning, dyeing, and weaving. The mention of "colored linens from Egypt" in Proverbs suggests that these items were not only functional but also decorative, reflecting the artistry and skill of the weavers.

The use of coverlets in biblical times also underscores the importance of hospitality and the preparation of a home for guests. Providing a comfortable and well-appointed sleeping area would have been a way to honor and show respect to visitors, aligning with the biblical emphasis on hospitality.

Symbolic and Theological Implications:

While coverlets themselves are not heavily laden with symbolic meaning in Scripture, their mention in Proverbs 7:16 serves as a metaphor for temptation and the allure of sin. The seductress uses the imagery of a beautifully adorned bed to entice her victim, illustrating how material comforts and luxuries can be used to lead one astray from righteousness.

In a broader theological sense, the use of coverlets can be seen as a reflection of God's provision and care for His people. Just as a coverlet provides warmth and protection, so does God offer His covering and shelter to those who seek Him. This theme is echoed in various passages where God is described as a refuge and a source of comfort.

Conclusion:

Coverlets, while a minor detail in the biblical text, offer a glimpse into the material culture of the ancient world and serve as a reminder of the broader themes of temptation, hospitality, and divine provision. Through the lens of Scripture, even the simplest of household items can reveal deeper spiritual truths and cultural insights.

The Census and the Journey of the Holy Family
... She is sewing and knitting coverlets, cloths, and swaddling-bands. ... They were
preparing coverlets and other things for Mary's confinement. ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/x the census and the.htm

Peter's Simplicity of Life.
... necessity must make you my servant? For who else can spread my sheets,
and arrange my beautiful coverlets? Who will be at hand to ...
/.../unknown/recognitions of clement /chapter vi peters simplicity of life.htm

Saint George Kills the Enchanter Osmond.
... heard before in the kingdom; nor had such stately pageants ever been seen as those
which welcomed them; the walls were hung with Indian coverlets and curious ...
/.../the seven champions of christendom/chapter thirteen saint george kills.htm

The visitation
... Jewish women used coverlets like these when in child-bed; an inner lining was fastened
to the middle of it so that the mother could be wrapped up together in ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/ix the visitation.htm

Faustus Claims that the Manich??ans and not the Catholics are ...
... your communion, and are called Mattarians, because they sleep on mats,"a very different
bed from the feathers of Faustus and his goatskin coverlets, and all ...
/.../faustus claims that the manichaeans.htm

Canons and Monks
... elaborate cookery and nice taste in wines; their interest in the cut and material
of their clothes and the luxury of their bed coverlets: the extravagance of ...
/.../medley/the church and the empire/chapter v canons and monks.htm

The Journey of the Three Holy Kings to Bethlehem
... Today I saw Mary lay the Infant in her mother's arms; Anna was greatly moved.
She had brought with her coverlets, clothes, and provisions. ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xiii the journey of the.htm

1 Cor. Ix. 1
... bear with me.) Thou, I say, pampering and fattening thyself and extending thy potations
to the dead of night and comforting thyself in soft coverlets, dost not ...
/.../homilies on the epistles of paul to the corinthians/homily xxi 1 cor ix.htm

The First Theban Empire
... "It was after the evening meal, as night came on,"I gave myself up to pleasure for
a time,"then I lay down upon the soft coverlets in my palace, I ...
/.../chapter iiithe first theban empire.htm

The Iranian Conquest
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 9. <. ...
/.../chapter ithe iranian conquest.htm

Coverlets (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Coverlets (2 Occurrences). Proverbs 7:16 I have decked
my bed with tapestry coverlets of variegated linen from Egypt; (DBY JPS). ...
/c/coverlets.htm - 6k

Covers (50 Occurrences)

/c/covers.htm - 19k

Variegated (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Variegated (1 Occurrence). Proverbs 7:16 I have decked
my bed with tapestry coverlets of variegated linen from Egypt; (DBY). ...
/v/variegated.htm - 6k

Coverlet (3 Occurrences)

/c/coverlet.htm - 7k

Byssus (40 Occurrences)
... shouted and was glad. (DBY). Proverbs 31:22 She maketh herself coverlets;
her clothing is byssus and purple. (DBY). Ezekiel 16:10 ...
/b/byssus.htm - 19k

Egyptian (35 Occurrences)
... forever; (WEB NAS). Proverbs 7:16 I have decked my couch with coverlets, with
striped cloths of the yarn of Egypt. (See RSV). Isaiah 11 ...
/e/egyptian.htm - 19k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus