Topical Encyclopedia In the ancient Near Eastern context, articles of embroidery were highly valued commodities, often associated with wealth, artistry, and skilled craftsmanship. The Bible provides several references to embroidered items, highlighting their significance in both religious and secular settings.Biblical References and Context Embroidery in biblical times was a meticulous craft, involving the use of colored threads, often gold or silver, to create intricate designs on fabric. This art form is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, indicating its importance in commerce and daily life. One of the earliest references to embroidery is found in the construction of the Tabernacle. In Exodus 26:36, the instructions for the Tabernacle include "a curtain for the entrance to the tent, made of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen, the work of an embroiderer." This highlights the use of embroidery in sacred spaces, signifying beauty and divine craftsmanship. In Ezekiel 27:16, the prophet describes the wealth and trade of Tyre, noting, "Aram was your customer because of your many products. They exchanged turquoise, purple, embroidered work, fine linen, coral, and rubies for your wares." Here, embroidered items are listed among the luxurious goods traded by the prosperous city of Tyre, underscoring their value in international commerce. Cultural and Economic Significance Embroidery was not only a symbol of artistic expression but also a marker of social status and economic prosperity. The skill required to produce embroidered articles made them expensive and sought after, often reserved for the elite or used in religious ceremonies. In Judges 5:30, the spoils of war are described, including "a girl or two for each warrior, the spoil of dyed and embroidered garments for Sisera, the spoil of embroidered garments, double-embroidered garments for my neck as spoil." This passage illustrates the desirability of embroidered garments as prized possessions, even among victors in battle. Symbolism and Spiritual Implications The use of embroidery in the Bible often carries symbolic meanings. In Psalm 45:14, the bride is described as being "led to the king in embroidered garments," symbolizing purity, beauty, and the honor of being presented before royalty. This imagery reflects the spiritual adornment and preparation of the believer for a relationship with God. Moreover, the intricate designs and vibrant colors of embroidered articles can be seen as a reflection of God's creativity and the beauty of His creation. The detailed work required in embroidery serves as a metaphor for the care and precision with which God weaves the fabric of human history and individual lives. Conclusion While the Bible does not provide exhaustive details on the commercial aspects of embroidery, the references to embroidered articles highlight their cultural, economic, and spiritual significance. These items were not only valuable trade goods but also symbols of divine beauty and human artistry, reflecting the intricate and purposeful design of God's creation. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 27:16,24Syria was your merchant by reason of the multitude of the wares of your making: they occupied in your fairs with emeralds, purple, and broidered work, and fine linen, and coral, and agate. Nave's Topical Index Library Chaldaean Civilization The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Close of the Theban Empire The Political Constitution of Egypt Resources What are blue laws? What is a biblical view of blue laws? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Cyprus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Is there such a thing as absolute truth / universal truth? | GotQuestions.org Commerce: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Commerce of the Jews: Checked in Jehoshaphat's Time Commerce of the Jews: Commenced After Their Settlement in Canaan Commerce of the Jews: Greatly Extended by Solomon Commerce of the Jews: Under Strict Laws Commerce: Articles of Blue Cloth Commerce: Articles of Bodies and Souls of Men Commerce: Articles of Chariots Commerce: Articles of Chest of Rich Apparel Commerce: Articles of Chests of Rich Apparel Commerce: Articles of Cinnamon Commerce: Articles of Clothes for Chariots Commerce: Articles of Embroidery Commerce: Articles of Frankincense Commerce: Articles of Iron and Steel Commerce: Articles of Peacocks Commerce: Articles of Perfumes Commerce: Articles of Precious Stones Commerce: Articles of Sweet Cane Commerce: Articles of Thyine Wood Commerce: Articles of White Wool Commerce: Articles of, Called: Merchandise Commerce: Articles of, Called: Wares Commerce: Called: Buying and Selling Commerce: Carried on by Egyptians Commerce: Carried on by Ethiopians Commerce: Carried on by Ishmaelites Commerce: Carried on by Means of Caravans Commerce: Carried on by Means of Ships Commerce: Carried on by Ninevites Commerce: Carried on by People of Tarshish Commerce: Carried on by People of Tyre Commerce: Carried on by Syrians Commerce: Denunciations Connected With Abuses of Commerce: Evil Practices Connected With Commerce: Illustrative of Intercourse With the Apostasy Commerce: Increased the Wealth of Nations and Individuals Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Chapmen Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Merchants Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Sellers and Buyers Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Traffickers Commerce: Persons of Distinction Engaged In Commerce: Success In, Led to Pride Commerce: The Barter of One Commodity for Another Commerce: The Exchange of Commodities for Money Commerce: Transportation of Passengers Related Terms |
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