Topical Encyclopedia Wool, the fleece of sheep, holds significant importance in the biblical narrative, both as a practical material and as a symbol with spiritual implications. In ancient Israel, wool was a primary textile used for clothing and various household items, reflecting the agrarian lifestyle of the people. The production and use of wool are mentioned throughout the Scriptures, highlighting its value and utility.Biblical References and Symbolism Wool is first mentioned in the context of offerings and sacrifices. In Leviticus 13:47-48, the laws concerning leprosy in garments include woolen materials, indicating its common use: "If any fabric is contaminated with mildew—any woolen or linen garment, any weave or knit of linen or wool, or any leather article—". This passage underscores the prevalence of wool in everyday life and its inclusion in the purity laws of Israel. The fleece of wool is also used as a symbol of divine provision and blessing. In Judges 6:37-40, Gideon uses a fleece of wool to seek confirmation from God regarding his mission to save Israel: "Behold, I will place a fleece of wool on the threshing floor. If there is dew only on the fleece and all the ground is dry, then I will know that You will deliver Israel by my hand, as You have said." This miraculous sign, where the fleece was wet with dew while the ground remained dry, and vice versa, served as a divine assurance to Gideon. Wool is further associated with purity and righteousness. In Isaiah 1:18, the prophet uses wool as a metaphor for cleansing and forgiveness: "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool." Here, wool's natural whiteness symbolizes the transformative power of God's forgiveness, turning sin-stained lives into purity. Economic and Social Context In the ancient Near East, wool was a valuable commodity, integral to the economy and daily life. The process of shearing sheep, spinning, and weaving wool was labor-intensive, often involving the entire community. Proverbs 31:13 describes the virtuous woman who "selects wool and flax and works with eager hands," highlighting the industrious nature of women in managing household resources. The trade of wool and woolen goods was also significant. Ezekiel 27:18 mentions the trade of wool from Damascus, indicating its role in international commerce: "Damascus was your merchant because of your many products, because of your great wealth of goods. They exchanged wine from Helbon, wool from Zahar." Spiritual Lessons and Applications Wool's biblical symbolism extends to spiritual lessons about God's care and provision. The imagery of the Good Shepherd, as seen in John 10:11, where Jesus declares, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep," evokes the pastoral setting where sheep are tended for their wool. This metaphor illustrates the protective and sacrificial nature of Christ's love for His people. Moreover, the use of wool in priestly garments, as described in Exodus 28, signifies holiness and dedication to God. The high priest's ephod, made of fine linen and wool, represents the blending of divine service with earthly materials, pointing to the sanctity required in worship. In summary, wool in the Bible serves as a multifaceted symbol, representing God's provision, purity, and the industrious nature of His people. Its presence in both practical and spiritual contexts underscores its enduring significance in the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index Judges 6:37Behold, I will put a fleece of wool in the floor; and if the dew be on the fleece only, and it be dry on all the earth beside, then shall I know that you will save Israel by my hand, as you have said. Nave's Topical Index Library Gideon and the Fleece. Gideon's Fleece The Story of Gideon and his Three Hundred Soldiers The Choice of Gideon was a Figure of Our Lord's Incarnation, The Pleading Letter xxxvi (Circa AD 1131) to the Same Hildebert, who had not ... The Apostles Teach that it was Neither Christ nor the Saviour, but ... The Eighth Commandment Heretics Appeal to Scripture that they May More Easily Succeed in ... Of Removing Tithes. Resources Why does the Bible speak against wearing clothing made of different types of fabric? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does shabbat mean? | GotQuestions.org What was the significance of the commands against mixing different things in Deuteronomy 22:9 11? | GotQuestions.org Wool: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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