Definition and Context:
The term "headtire" refers to a type of head covering or ornamentation mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the context of ancient Israelite and Near Eastern customs. It is often associated with women's attire and is indicative of social status, cultural identity, and religious practice.

Biblical References:
The concept of headtire is primarily found in the Old Testament. One notable reference is in the book of Isaiah, where the prophet Isaiah speaks against the pride and ostentation of the daughters of Zion. Isaiah 3:18-20 states: "In that day the Lord will take away the finery of their anklets and headbands and crescents, the pendants, bracelets, and veils, the headdresses, ankle chains, sashes, perfume bottles, and charms."

Cultural and Historical Background:
In ancient Israel and the surrounding regions, headtires were often elaborate and could include elements such as veils, turbans, or diadems. These adornments were not merely decorative but served as symbols of wealth, marital status, and religious devotion. The use of headtires was common among women of higher social standing, and they were often crafted from precious materials, including gold and silver, and adorned with jewels.

Theological Significance:
The mention of headtires in the Bible often carries a deeper theological message. In Isaiah 3, the critique of the daughters of Zion's adornments serves as a metaphor for the spiritual pride and moral decay of the people. The removal of these adornments symbolizes God's judgment and the stripping away of false security and vanity. This passage underscores the biblical theme that true beauty and worth are found in humility and righteousness rather than external appearances.

Related Concepts:
The concept of head coverings is also addressed in the New Testament, particularly in 1 Corinthians 11:5-6 , where Paul discusses the practice of women covering their heads during prayer and prophecy: "And every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for it is just as if her head were shaved. If a woman does not cover her head, she should have her hair cut off. And if it is shameful for a woman to have her hair cut or shaved off, she should cover her head."

Interpretation and Application:
Throughout history, the interpretation and application of biblical teachings on headtires and head coverings have varied among Christian communities. Some traditions have maintained the practice of head coverings for women as a sign of modesty and respect, while others view these instructions as culturally specific to the time of the early church. The emphasis remains on the underlying principles of humility, modesty, and the acknowledgment of divine order.

Conclusion:
While the specific practice of wearing headtires may not be prevalent in contemporary Christian communities, the biblical references to such adornments continue to offer valuable insights into the cultural, social, and spiritual dynamics of ancient Israel. They serve as a reminder of the importance of inner virtue over outward appearance and the call to live a life that honors God in all aspects.1. (n.) A headdress.

2. (n.) The manner of dressing the head, as at a particular time and place.

HEADTIRE

hed'-tir.

See BONNET; DRESS.

TIRE, HEADTIRE

tir (2 Kings 9:30 Isaiah 3:20 Ezekiel 24:17, 23; Judith 10:3; 16:8).

See DRESS, V.

Headtire (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. HEADTIRE. hed'-tir. ... TIRE, HEADTIRE. tir (2 Kings
9:30 Isaiah 3:20 Ezekiel 24:17, 23; Judith 10:3; 16:8). See DRESS, V. ...
/h/headtire.htm - 7k

Tire (5 Occurrences)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. TIRE, HEADTIRE. tir (2 Kings 9:30 Isaiah 3:20
Ezekiel 24:17, 23; Judith 10:3; 16:8). See DRESS, V. Multi-Version Concordance ...
/t/tire.htm - 9k

Tires (3 Occurrences)
... er, a "turban" or an ornament for the head (Ezek. 24:17; RV, "headtire;24:
23). In Isaiah 3:18 the word saharonim is rendered "round ...
/t/tires.htm - 8k

Mitre (10 Occurrences)
... The material of the mitre was fine linen or silk. The word for the headtire (the
King James Version "bonnet") of the ordinary priest was a different word. ...
/m/mitre.htm - 12k

Silently (5 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 24:17 Sigh in silence; make no mourning for the dead, bind thy headtire
upon thee, and put thy shoes upon thy feet, and cover not thine upper lip, and ...
/s/silently.htm - 7k

Headdress (1 Occurrence)
... Mount Lebanon the tantura. Noah Webster's Dictionary. 1. (n.) A covering
or ornament for the head; a headtire. 2. (n.) A manner of ...
/h/headdress.htm - 8k

Headstrong (2 Occurrences)

/h/headstrong.htm - 7k

Headtires (2 Occurrences)

/h/headtires.htm - 6k

Silence (80 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 24:17 Sigh, but not aloud, make no mourning for the dead; bind thy headtire
upon thee, and put thy shoes upon thy feet, and cover not thy lips, and eat ...
/s/silence.htm - 31k

Upper (99 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 24:17 Sigh, but not aloud, make no mourning for the dead; bind thy headtire
upon thee, and put thy shoes upon thy feet, and cover not thy lips, and eat ...
/u/upper.htm - 39k

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