Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, clothing, including dresses, served not only as a practical necessity but also as a symbol of identity, status, and religious observance. The Bible provides various references to garments, including dresses, which offer insight into the cultural and spiritual significance of clothing in ancient Israel and the early Christian church.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, clothing often indicated one's social status and role. For example, Joseph's "robe of many colors" (Genesis 37:3) symbolized his father's favoritism and set him apart from his brothers. Dresses and robes were typically made from wool, linen, or occasionally more luxurious materials like silk for the wealthy. The Law of Moses included specific instructions regarding clothing. Deuteronomy 22:5 states, "A woman must not wear men’s clothing, and a man must not wear women’s clothing, for the LORD your God detests anyone who does this." This command underscores the importance of maintaining distinct gender roles and identities through dress. Priestly garments were particularly significant, as described in Exodus 28. The high priest's attire included a breastplate, ephod, robe, tunic, turban, and sash, each with symbolic meaning and crafted with precision to honor God. New Testament Context In the New Testament, clothing continues to hold symbolic meaning. Jesus warns against the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, who "make their phylacteries broad and the tassels on their garments long" (Matthew 23:5), using their dress to display false piety. The Apostle Paul addresses modesty in dress, particularly for women, in 1 Timothy 2:9-10 : "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, but with good deeds, as is proper for women who profess to worship God." Here, Paul emphasizes inner virtue over outward appearance. Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons Throughout Scripture, clothing often symbolizes spiritual truths. Isaiah 61:10 declares, "I will rejoice greatly in the LORD; my soul will exult in my God. For He has clothed me with garments of salvation and wrapped me in a robe of righteousness." This imagery highlights the transformative power of God's salvation, likening it to being clothed in righteousness. In Revelation, the faithful are described as wearing white robes, symbolizing purity and victory through Christ (Revelation 7:9, 13-14). This imagery reinforces the theme of spiritual purity and the ultimate reward for those who remain steadfast in faith. Cultural and Historical Considerations Understanding the cultural and historical context of biblical references to dresses and clothing enhances our comprehension of the text. In ancient times, clothing was handmade and often costly, making it a valuable possession. The styles and materials varied based on climate, available resources, and cultural influences from neighboring regions. The Bible's teachings on dress encourage believers to reflect on their identity in Christ, prioritize inner spiritual beauty, and maintain modesty and propriety in their appearance. ATS Bible Dictionary DressesSee GARMENTS. Greek 2440. himation -- an outer garment, a cloak, robe ... garment) Definition an outer garment, a cloak, robe NASB Word Usage cloak (8), cloaks (1), clothes (1), clothing (2), coat (4), coats (8), dresses (1), garment ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2440.htm - 7k Library Time Changes Nations' Dresses --And Fortunes. Epistle vii. To Januarius, Bishop of Caralis (Cagliari). Events of Early Christian Life He came to his Own. Early Lessons in the Life of Faith The Right to Regulate My Private Affairs as I Wish Do You Know Yourself? The King's Courts The Comparison, Found in the Gospel of St. ... The Review of the Troops at Doriscus. Thesaurus Dresses (4 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Dresses (4 Occurrences). ... (BBE). Isaiah 3:22 The feast-day dresses, and the robes, and the wide skirts, and the handbags, (BBE). ... /d/dresses.htm - 7k War-dresses (1 Occurrence) Head-dresses (11 Occurrences) Undergarments (6 Occurrences) Trousers (7 Occurrences) Body-covers (25 Occurrences) Beautiful (152 Occurrences) Wardrobe (4 Occurrences) War-dress (6 Occurrences) Headed (7 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about androgyny? | GotQuestions.orgShould Christian women wear pants (trousers)? | GotQuestions.org Who are the Amish, and what are their beliefs? | GotQuestions.org Dresses: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Dresses (4 Occurrences)1 Peter 3:3 Exodus 30:7 2 Samuel 1:24 Isaiah 3:22 Subtopics Related Terms |
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