Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, clothing was an important aspect of daily life and often held symbolic significance. Skirts, as a component of dress, are mentioned in various contexts throughout the Bible, reflecting cultural norms and spiritual symbolism.Old Testament References The Hebrew word often translated as "skirt" is "kanaf," which can also mean "corner" or "edge." This term is frequently used in the context of garments, particularly in relation to the fringes or tassels that were commanded to be worn by the Israelites. In Numbers 15:38-39 , God instructs Moses: "Speak to the Israelites and tell them to make for themselves tassels on the corners of their garments throughout their generations. And they shall put a blue cord on the tassel at each corner. These will serve as tassels for you to look at, so that you may remember all the commandments of the LORD, that you may obey them and not prostitute yourselves by following your own hearts and eyes." The "corners" mentioned here are often interpreted as the edges or skirts of the garments. The tassels served as a physical reminder of the covenant between God and His people, symbolizing obedience and dedication to His commandments. In Ruth 3:9 , the term "skirt" is used in a more personal and intimate context. Ruth, seeking protection and provision, approaches Boaz and says, "I am your servant Ruth. Spread the corner of your garment over me, for you are a kinsman-redeemer." Here, the "corner of your garment" signifies a request for Boaz's protection and a symbolic act of taking Ruth under his care, reflecting the cultural practice of a kinsman-redeemer. Prophetic and Symbolic Uses The prophets often used clothing imagery to convey messages from God. In Ezekiel 16:8 , God describes His covenant with Israel using the imagery of clothing: "Then I passed by and saw you, and you were indeed old enough for love. So I spread My cloak over you and covered your nakedness. I pledged Myself to you, entered into a covenant with you, declares the Lord GOD, and you became Mine." The act of spreading a cloak, or skirt, over someone symbolizes protection, commitment, and the establishment of a covenant relationship. New Testament Context While the New Testament does not specifically mention skirts in the same way as the Old Testament, the cultural practices of the time continued to reflect modesty and propriety in dress. The principles of modesty and distinction in dress are echoed in passages such as 1 Timothy 2:9-10 , where Paul writes, "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." Cultural and Historical Considerations In biblical times, both men and women wore garments that could be described as robes or tunics, which often included skirts or flowing parts. These garments were typically made of wool, linen, or other natural fibers, and their design varied based on social status, occupation, and occasion. The skirt or hem of a garment could signify authority or status, as seen in the account of David cutting off a corner of Saul's robe in 1 Samuel 24:4-5 , an act that symbolized the transfer of authority and respect. Overall, skirts in biblical times were more than just articles of clothing; they carried deep cultural and spiritual meanings, reflecting the values and beliefs of the people. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 5:3You shall also take thereof a few in number, and bind them in your skirts. Nave's Topical Index Library Changed Conditions The Equipment of the Servants The Crucifixion. Choosing the Tens To the Rev. Andrew Brandram Beauty for Ashes Wary Walking. We Hear Much of the Human Error which Accepts what is Sham and ... The Condescension of Christ Journey to Evora Resources Should a Christian woman wear a bikini? | GotQuestions.orgShould Christian women wear makeup or jewelry? | GotQuestions.org Why do Muslim women have to wear a hijab? | GotQuestions.org Dress: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Dress of the Head: Bonnets (R. V., Head-Tires), Prescribed by Moses, for the Priests Dress: Bonnets (Rv , Head-Tires), Worn by Women Dress: Ceremonial Purification of Dress: Changes of Clothes, the Folly of Excessive Dress: Filthy, of Unrighteousness Dress: Hats (Turbans, RV Margin), Worn by Men Dress: Men Forbidden to Wear Women's, and Women Forbidden to Wear Men's Dress: Mixed Materials In, Forbidden Dress: Not to be Held Overnight As a Pledge for Debt Dress: Presents Made of Changes of Clothes Dress: Rules With Respect to Women's Dress: Sleeveless Shirt, Called Coat Dress: Symbolical: Filthy, of Iniquity Dress: Uniform Vestments Kept in Store for Worshipers of Baal Dress: Various Articles of Mantle Dress: Various Articles of Many-Colored Dress: Various Articles of Purple Related Terms |
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