Headtires, also referred to as headbands or turbans, are articles of clothing mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the context of ancient Israelite dress and priestly garments. These items served both practical and symbolic purposes, reflecting cultural norms and religious significance.

Biblical References

The term "headtires" appears in various forms throughout the Scriptures, often associated with the attire of priests and individuals of high status. In the Berean Standard Bible, the concept is captured in several passages:

1. Priestly Garments: In Exodus 28:4, the attire of the high priest includes a "turban" as part of the sacred garments: "These are the garments they are to make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a woven tunic, a turban, and a sash. They are to make these sacred garments for your brother Aaron and his sons, so that they may serve Me as priests." The turban, or headtires, was an integral part of the priestly vestments, symbolizing holiness and dedication to God.

2. Ezekiel's Vision: In Ezekiel 24:17, the prophet is instructed, "Groan quietly; do not mourn for the dead. Keep your turban fastened and your sandals on your feet; do not cover your mustache or eat the bread of mourners." Here, the turban signifies a state of readiness and obedience to God's commands, even in times of personal loss.

3. Isaiah's Prophecy: Isaiah 3:20 mentions headtires in the context of the daughters of Zion: "the headdresses, ankle chains, sashes, perfume bottles, and charms." This passage highlights the adornments of women in Jerusalem, indicating a cultural practice of wearing decorative headgear.

Cultural and Religious Significance

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, headtires were not merely functional but also carried social and religious connotations. For the Israelites, the headgear worn by priests was a mark of their consecration and service to God. The high priest's turban, in particular, was adorned with a gold plate inscribed with "Holy to the LORD" (Exodus 28:36), underscoring the sanctity of their role.

The use of headtires extended beyond the priesthood to signify status and beauty among the general populace. In Isaiah's prophecy, the mention of headtires among the daughters of Zion reflects their use as symbols of wealth and societal standing.

Symbolism and Interpretation

From a theological perspective, headtires in the Bible can be seen as symbols of authority, purity, and divine service. The specific instructions regarding the priestly turban emphasize the importance of outward expressions of inner holiness and dedication to God's commandments. The headtires serve as a reminder of the call to live a life set apart for God's purposes.

In summary, headtires in the biblical context are multifaceted, representing both the cultural practices of the time and the deeper spiritual truths of consecration and devotion to God.Headtires (2 Occurrences)

Isaiah 3:20
the headtires, and the ankle chains, and the sashes, and the perfume-boxes, and the amulets;
(ASV JPS)

Jeremiah 13:18
Say thou unto the king and to the queen-mother, Humble yourselves, sit down; for your headtires are come down, even the crown of your glory.
(ASV JPS)

Headtires (2 Occurrences)
...Headtires (2 Occurrences). Isaiah 3:20 the headtires, and the ankle chains, and
the sashes, and the perfume-boxes, and the amulets; (ASV JPS). ...
/h/headtires.htm - 6k

Queen-mother (2 Occurrences)
... Jeremiah 13:18 Say thou unto the king and to the queen-mother, Humble yourselves,
sit down; for your headtires are come down, even the crown of your glory. ...
/q/queen-mother.htm - 7k

Leg (24 Occurrences)
... where the King James Version reads: "the bonnets, and the ornaments of the legs,"
the Revised Version (British and American) corrects: "the headtires (ts`adhah ...
/l/leg.htm - 19k

Goodly (46 Occurrences)
... goodly horse" (Zechariah 10:3); others imply beauty, ornament, such as peer "goodly
bonnets," the Revised Version (British and American) "headtires" (Exodus 39 ...
/g/goodly.htm - 25k

Perfume-boxes (1 Occurrence)
... Perfume-boxes (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 3:20 the headtires, and the ankle chains, and
the sashes, and the perfume-boxes, and the amulets; (ASV BBE). ...
/p/perfume-boxes.htm - 6k

Boxes (3 Occurrences)
... Isaiah 3:20 the headtires, and the ankle chains, and the sashes, and the
perfume-boxes, and the amulets; (ASV BBE DBY YLT NAS RSV). ...
/b/boxes.htm - 7k

Corselets (1 Occurrence)
... Corselets (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 3:20 the headtires, and the ankle chains, and
the sashes, and the perfume-boxes, and the amulets; (See JPS). ...
/c/corselets.htm - 6k

Armlets (3 Occurrences)
... RSV NIV). Isaiah 3:20 the headtires, and the ankle chains, and the sashes,
and the perfume-boxes, and the amulets; (See JPS RSV). ...
/a/armlets.htm - 7k

Amulets (1 Occurrence)
... Amulets (1 Occurrence). Isaiah 3:20 the headtires, and the ankle chains, and the
sashes, and the perfume-boxes, and the amulets; (ASV DBY JPS YLT NAS RSV). ...
/a/amulets.htm - 6k

Headtire (1 Occurrence)

/h/headtire.htm - 7k

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