Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, garments, often referred to as "vesture," held significant cultural, religious, and symbolic meanings. The term "vesture" is used in various contexts throughout the Bible, denoting clothing or attire that often carries deeper spiritual or societal implications.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, garments were not merely functional but also symbolic of one's status, role, and identity. For instance, Joseph's "robe of many colors" (Genesis 37:3) symbolized his father's special favor, which incited jealousy among his brothers. Garments were also used in covenantal and priestly contexts. The high priest's vestments, as described in Exodus 28, were elaborate and rich in symbolism, representing holiness and the glory of God. The tearing of garments was a common expression of grief or repentance. In 2 Samuel 1:11, David and his men tore their clothes upon hearing of Saul and Jonathan's deaths, demonstrating profound sorrow. Similarly, in Joel 2:13, the prophet calls the people to "rend your heart and not your garments," emphasizing genuine repentance over mere outward expressions. New Testament Context In the New Testament, garments continue to hold symbolic significance. The vesture of Jesus is particularly noteworthy. In Matthew 27:35 , the soldiers cast lots for Jesus' garments, fulfilling the prophecy from Psalm 22:18, "They divide My garments among them and cast lots for My clothing." This act underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and the humiliation Christ endured. The transfiguration of Jesus also highlights the significance of garments. In Mark 9:3 , it is noted that "His clothes became radiantly white, brighter than any launderer on earth could bleach them," symbolizing His divine glory and purity. Symbolism and Spiritual Significance Garments in the Bible often symbolize righteousness or unrighteousness. In Isaiah 61:10 , the prophet rejoices, "For He has clothed me with garments of salvation and wrapped me in a robe of righteousness." This imagery conveys the transformative power of God's salvation and the covering of sin through divine grace. Conversely, in Zechariah 3:3-4 , Joshua the high priest is depicted wearing filthy garments, representing sin, which are then replaced with "festal robes," symbolizing cleansing and restoration by God. Eschatological Imagery In the book of Revelation, garments are frequently mentioned in eschatological contexts. Revelation 19:13 describes Christ at His second coming, "He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and His name is The Word of God." This imagery conveys both judgment and redemption, highlighting the dual aspects of Christ's return. Believers are also called to be clothed in white garments, symbolizing purity and victory. Revelation 3:5 promises, "He who overcomes will be clothed in white garments," signifying the reward for faithfulness and perseverance. Throughout Scripture, garments, or vesture, serve as powerful symbols of identity, status, and spiritual truths, reflecting the profound interplay between the physical and the spiritual in the biblical narrative. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 41:42And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it on Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in clothing of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck; Torrey's Topical Textbook Revelation 19:16 Library Concerning the Garments of the Priests, and of the High Priest. The King and his Armies. And when Pilate Heard this Saying, He Took Jesus Out... The War in Heaven. The Return of Christ to the Earth Itself. An Eye-Witness's Account of the Crucifixion The Crucifixion Other Incidents of the Passion Minutely Compared with Prophecy ... What the Blood of the Grape Signifies. Like Teacher, Like Scholar Resources What is the origin of baptism? | GotQuestions.orgWho are the Chemarim / Chemarims in Zephaniah 1:4? | GotQuestions.org What is a prayer shawl? | GotQuestions.org Garments: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Garments of Israel Preserved for Forty Years Garments of the Poor used As a Covering by Night Garments of the Poor: Not to be Retained in Pledge Garments of the Poor: Provided Specially by God Garments of the Rich of the Finest Materials Garments of the Rich: Embroidered Garments of the Rich: Gorgeous Garments of the Rich: Multiplied and Heaped Up Garments of the Rich: Often Moth-Eaten Garments of the Rich: Perfumed Garments of the Sexes, not to be Interchanged Garments of Those Slain With a Sword not Used Garments were often Fringed and Bordered Garments: (Rolled in Blood) Victory Garments: (Washed in Wine) Abundance Garments: (White) Righteousness Garments: Cleansed by Water from Ceremonial Uncleanness Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: Blue Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: Different Colours Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: Purple Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: Scarlet Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: White Garments: Girt up During Employment Garments: Given As a Token of Covenants Garments: Grew Old and Wore Out Garments: Hyke or Upper Garment Garments: Liable to Plague and Leprosy Garments: Materials Used for Camel's Hair Garments: Materials Used for Linen Garments: Materials Used for Sackcloth Garments: Materials Used for Silk Garments: Materials Used for Skins Garments: Materials Used for Wool Garments: Not to be Made of Mixed Materials Garments: Often Rent in Affliction Garments: Scribes and Pharisees Condemned for Making Broad the Borders Garments: Worn Long and Flowing Related Terms |
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