Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, clothing was not only a necessity but also a symbol of one's social and economic status. The garments of the poor are often depicted in Scripture as being of low quality, reflecting their humble circumstances. The term "vile" in reference to these garments underscores the stark contrast between the rich and the poor, highlighting the social disparities of the time.The Bible frequently addresses the condition and treatment of the poor, emphasizing the importance of compassion and justice. In James 2:2-3 , the apostle James illustrates the partiality shown in the assembly: "Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. If you lavish attention on the man in fine clothes and say, 'Here is a seat of honor,' but say to the poor man, 'You must stand,' or, 'Sit at my feet,' have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?" This passage highlights the tendency to judge individuals based on their outward appearance, particularly their clothing, and calls for a more equitable treatment of all people, regardless of their economic status. The Old Testament also provides insight into the condition of the poor and their garments. In Job 24:7 , the plight of the impoverished is described: "Without clothing, they spend the night naked; they have no covering against the cold." This vivid imagery portrays the dire circumstances faced by the poor, who lack even the basic necessities to protect themselves from the elements. Furthermore, the Mosaic Law includes specific instructions regarding the treatment of the poor, including their garments. In Exodus 22:26-27 , it is written: "If you take your neighbor’s cloak as collateral, return it to him by sunset, because his cloak is the only covering he has for his body. What else will he sleep in? And if he cries out to Me, I will hear, for I am compassionate." This law underscores the importance of empathy and the recognition of the basic human dignity of the poor, even in matters of debt and collateral. The prophets also speak to the issue of the poor and their garments. In Isaiah 58:7 , the prophet calls for true fasting, which includes sharing with those in need: "Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and to bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?" This passage emphasizes the moral responsibility to care for the less fortunate, including providing them with clothing. Throughout Scripture, the garments of the poor serve as a powerful symbol of their vulnerability and the broader social injustices they face. The biblical narrative consistently calls for a response of compassion, justice, and mercy towards those in need, urging believers to look beyond outward appearances and to act in accordance with God's love and righteousness. Torrey's Topical Textbook James 2:2For if there come to your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Separating the Precious from the Vile The Power of Christ Illustrated by the Resurrection Vile Ingratitude! Blessed are the Poor in Spirit The Resurrection of the Dead The True Spirit of Missions. Matt. xx. 29, 30 Christ the Only Rest for the Weary and Heavy-Laden Love "But we are all as an Unclean Thing, and all Our Righteousnesses ... Resources Who was Sisera in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does diadem mean in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of a scarlet thread? | 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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