In biblical times, the waistband, also referred to as a girdle or belt, was an essential part of the attire for both men and women. It served not only a practical purpose but also held symbolic significance in various scriptural contexts.

Function and Description:

The waistband was typically a strip of cloth or leather worn around the waist. It was used to secure garments, allowing for greater freedom of movement, especially during labor or travel. In some instances, it also served as a place to tuck in tools, money, or other small items. The waistband was an integral part of the attire, often mentioned alongside other garments such as tunics and cloaks.

Biblical References:

1. Priestly Garments: In the Old Testament, the waistband was part of the priestly garments. Exodus 28:39-40 describes the attire of Aaron and his sons, including the sash, which was a type of waistband: "Weave the tunic with fine linen, and make the turban of fine linen, and fashion an embroidered sash."

2. Symbol of Readiness and Strength: The waistband is often associated with preparedness and strength. In 1 Kings 18:46, Elijah girds his loins, indicating readiness for action: "And the hand of the LORD was on Elijah, and he girded up his loins and ran ahead of Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel."

3. Prophetic Symbolism: The prophet Jeremiah used a waistband as a symbol in his prophetic message. In Jeremiah 13:1-11, God instructs Jeremiah to buy a linen waistband and hide it in a crevice, symbolizing the pride of Judah and Jerusalem and their eventual ruin due to disobedience.

4. Metaphor for Truth and Righteousness: In the New Testament, the waistband is used metaphorically to represent truth and righteousness. Ephesians 6:14 states, "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place." Here, the belt signifies the importance of truth in the spiritual armor of God.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance:

The waistband was more than a mere accessory; it held cultural and spiritual significance. It was a symbol of readiness, dignity, and service. In a spiritual sense, the act of girding one's loins was a call to be prepared for action, whether in physical labor or spiritual warfare. The waistband's role in priestly garments also underscores its importance in the context of worship and service to God.

In summary, the waistband in biblical times was a multifaceted garment that played a crucial role in daily life and held deep symbolic meaning in the scriptures. Its presence in various biblical narratives highlights themes of readiness, strength, and spiritual truth.1. (n.) The band which encompasses the waist; esp., one on the upper part of breeches, trousers, pantaloons, skirts, or the like.

2. (n.) A sash worn by women around the waist.

2223. zone -- a belt
... Noun, Feminine Transliteration: zone Phonetic Spelling: (dzo'-nay) Short Definition:
a girdle, belt, purse Definition: a girdle, belt, waistband; because the ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2223.htm - 7k232. ezor -- a waist cloth
... 231, 232. ezor. 233 . a waist cloth. Transliteration: ezor Phonetic Spelling:
(ay-zore') Short Definition: waistband. Word Origin ...
/hebrew/232.htm - 6k

Teaching Three Things in one Action.
... Now He acts.[106] Quietly He rises from the table, picks up a towel and fastens
its end in His waistband for convenience in use, after the servant's usual ...
/.../gordon/quiet talks on johns gospel/teaching three things in one.htm

Waistband (15 Occurrences)
... or the like. 2. (n.) A sash worn by women around the waist. Multi-Version
Concordance Waistband (15 Occurrences). Exodus 28:8 The ...
/w/waistband.htm - 11k

Waistcloth (9 Occurrences)

/w/waistcloth.htm - 9k

Waist (36 Occurrences)

/w/waist.htm - 17k

Waistband: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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