Decorates
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The term "decorates" in the context of the Bible often refers to the act of adorning or embellishing something, whether it be a physical object, a place of worship, or even a person. The concept of decoration is seen throughout the Scriptures, highlighting both the beauty of God's creation and the human desire to honor God through artistic expression.

Biblical References and Context

1. Tabernacle and Temple Adornments: The Bible provides detailed descriptions of the decorations used in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple. In Exodus 25-31, God gives Moses specific instructions on how to build and decorate the Tabernacle, including the use of gold, silver, and precious stones. The purpose of these decorations was to reflect the glory and holiness of God. Similarly, Solomon's Temple was richly adorned, as described in 1 Kings 6-7, with cedar, gold, and intricate carvings.

2. Priestly Garments: The garments of the priests, particularly the high priest, were also decorated with great care. Exodus 28:2-4 states, "Make holy garments for your brother Aaron, to give him glory and splendor. You are to instruct all the skilled craftsmen, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom, to make Aaron’s garments for his consecration, so that he may serve Me as priest." These garments included the ephod, breastplate, and robe, all adorned with precious stones and fine materials.

3. Symbolism of Decoration: Decorations in the Bible often carry symbolic meanings. For instance, the use of gold and precious stones can symbolize purity, value, and divine presence. In Revelation 21:18-21 , the New Jerusalem is described with walls of jasper and a city of pure gold, adorned with every kind of precious stone, symbolizing the ultimate beauty and perfection of God's eternal kingdom.

4. Warnings Against Vanity: While decoration can be an expression of worship and reverence, the Bible also warns against excessive adornment that leads to vanity or idolatry. In 1 Peter 3:3-4 , believers are advised, "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."

5. Cultural and Historical Context: In biblical times, decoration was not only a religious practice but also a cultural expression. The use of decorations in homes, clothing, and public spaces reflected the customs and artistic achievements of ancient societies. The Bible acknowledges these practices while guiding believers to focus on the spiritual significance behind them.

Theological Implications

The act of decorating, as depicted in the Bible, serves as a reminder of the beauty and order inherent in God's creation. It encourages believers to use their creative talents to honor God and to reflect His glory in their surroundings. However, it also calls for discernment to ensure that such adornments do not become distractions or objects of worship themselves. The balance between appreciating beauty and maintaining spiritual integrity is a recurring theme in the biblical narrative.
Library

Repentance unto Life
... the strength of God resist sin, if you do not turn from it, this fancied repentance
shall be but the guilding which displays the paint which decorates; it is ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/repentance unto life.htm

Rom. xv. 25-27
... Learn that the dress of woman is not that put about the body, but that which decorates
the soul, which is never put off, which does not lie in a chest, but is ...
/.../chrysostom/homilies on acts and romans/homily xxx rom xv 25-27.htm

The Moral World not Constituted According to the Scheme of ...
... analysis of things. Fifthly, it decorates itself in false analogies, and thereby
assumes the imposing appearance of truth. Sixthly, it ...
/.../a theodicy or vindication of the divine glory/chapter iv the moral world.htm

Thesaurus
Decorates (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Decorates (1 Occurrence). Jeremiah 22:14 who says,
I will build me a wide house and spacious chambers, and ...
/d/decorates.htm - 6k

Decorated (12 Occurrences)

/d/decorated.htm - 10k

Decorating (4 Occurrences)

/d/decorating.htm - 7k

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Concordance
Decorates (1 Occurrence)

Jeremiah 22:14
who says, I will build me a wide house and spacious chambers, and cuts him out windows; and it is ceiling with cedar, and painted with vermilion.
(See NIV)

Subtopics

Decorates

Related Terms

Filigree (9 Occurrences)

Decorates (1 Occurrence)

Decoration (1 Occurrence)

Plaster (13 Occurrences)

Colour (22 Occurrences)

Gold (429 Occurrences)

Decorated
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