Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Finery refers to elaborate or showy clothing and accessories, often associated with wealth, status, or vanity. In biblical times, finery was a symbol of prosperity and social standing, but it also carried connotations of pride and moral decay when misused or prioritized over spiritual matters. Old Testament References The Old Testament frequently addresses the use of finery, particularly in the context of Israel's relationship with God. In Isaiah 3:16-24, the prophet Isaiah warns the women of Zion about their haughty demeanor and excessive adornment. The passage describes how the Lord will strip away their finery as a form of judgment: "In that day the Lord will take away their finery: their anklets and headbands and crescents, their pendants, bracelets, and veils, their headdresses, ankle chains, and sashes, their perfume bottles and charms, their signet rings and nose rings, their festive robes, capes, cloaks, and purses, and their mirrors, linen garments, tiaras, and shawls" (Isaiah 3:18-23). This serves as a reminder that reliance on outward appearance can lead to spiritual downfall. New Testament References In the New Testament, the focus shifts to the inner qualities of a person rather than their outward appearance. 1 Peter 3:3-4 advises women, "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 emphasizes the importance of inner virtues over external finery. Similarly, 1 Timothy 2:9-10 instructs women to dress modestly and with decency, "not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God" . The apostle Paul underscores that true beauty and worth are found in one's actions and character rather than in material adornments. Theological Implications The biblical perspective on finery highlights the tension between material wealth and spiritual integrity. While the Bible does not condemn wealth or beauty outright, it warns against the dangers of vanity and the temptation to prioritize external appearances over one's relationship with God. Finery, when used to flaunt wealth or status, can lead to pride and distract from the pursuit of godliness. The scriptures encourage believers to focus on cultivating inner virtues and to use their resources for the glory of God and the service of others. The emphasis is on modesty, humility, and the adornment of the soul with qualities that reflect the character of Christ. Cultural and Historical Considerations In ancient Israel and the surrounding cultures, clothing and adornments were significant indicators of social status and identity. The wealthy and powerful often displayed their status through elaborate garments and jewelry. However, the biblical narrative consistently calls God's people to a higher standard, one that values spiritual richness over material wealth. Throughout history, the church has grappled with the appropriate use of finery, often advocating for simplicity and modesty as expressions of faith and devotion. This perspective continues to influence Christian teachings on materialism and personal appearance today. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) Elaborate or ornamental clothing and accessories.2. (n.) Ornament; decoration; especially, excecially decoration; showy clothes; jewels. 3. (n.) A charcoal hearth or furnace for the conversion of cast iron into wrought iron, or into iron suitable for puddling. Strong's Hebrew 5716. adi -- ornaments... excellent, mouth, ornament. From adah in the sense of trappings; finery; generally an outfit; specifically, a headstall -- X excellent, mouth, ornament. ... /hebrew/5716.htm - 6k Library "A Low, Soft, Solemn Sound" Letter xiv. Dress. Against Embellishing the Body. Homilies on the Epistles to Timothy, Titus, and Philemon. Theodosius. On Clothes. Against Men who Embellish Themselves. Naparima and Montserrat Colossians iii. 18-25 The Runaway Thesaurus Finery (2 Occurrences)... iron, or into iron suitable for puddling. Multi-Version Concordance Finery (2 Occurrences). 2 Samuel 1:24 You daughters of Israel ... /f/finery.htm - 7k Finer (1 Occurrence) Flash (19 Occurrences) Fines (1 Occurrence) Resources What can we learn from the story of Elisha and Naaman? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the lust of the eyes? | GotQuestions.org Finery: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Finery (2 Occurrences)2 Samuel 1:24 Isaiah 3:18 Subtopics Related Terms |
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