Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, clothing often held significant cultural, social, and religious implications. The concept of being "well-dressed" in the Bible can be understood through various passages that highlight the importance of attire, both in a literal and metaphorical sense.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, clothing was often a symbol of status, identity, and divine favor. For instance, Joseph's "robe of many colors" (Genesis 37:3) given by his father Jacob, signified his favored status among his brothers. This special garment set Joseph apart and played a crucial role in the narrative of his life, leading to jealousy and eventual reconciliation. Priestly garments were another example of being well-dressed, as they were designed according to God's specific instructions. Exodus 28 details the elaborate attire of the high priest, including the ephod, breastplate, and turban, which were made "for glory and for beauty" (Exodus 28:2). These garments were not only a mark of the priest's sacred role but also a reflection of God's holiness and order. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the focus shifts more towards the spiritual implications of being well-dressed. Jesus often used clothing metaphorically to teach about righteousness and humility. In the Parable of the Wedding Banquet, the king notices a guest without wedding clothes and orders him to be cast out (Matthew 22:11-13). This parable illustrates the necessity of being spiritually prepared and clothed in righteousness to enter the kingdom of heaven. The Apostle Paul frequently uses the metaphor of clothing to describe the Christian life. In Colossians 3:12, he exhorts believers to "clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience" . Here, being well-dressed is equated with embodying Christ-like virtues, emphasizing the transformation of character over outward appearance. Symbolism and Spiritual Application Throughout Scripture, clothing often symbolizes spiritual truths. Isaiah 61:10 speaks of being "clothed with garments of salvation" and "arrayed in a robe of righteousness" , highlighting the redemptive work of God in the believer's life. This imagery is echoed in Revelation, where the saints are described as wearing white robes, symbolizing purity and victory through Christ (Revelation 7:9). The Bible also warns against an overemphasis on outward adornment. In 1 Peter 3:3-4, women are advised that their beauty should not come from "outward adornment" but from "the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit" . This passage underscores the biblical principle that true beauty and worth are found in one's character and relationship with God, rather than in external appearances. Cultural and Historical Considerations Understanding the cultural and historical context of biblical attire can enrich one's comprehension of these texts. In ancient Israel, clothing was often made from wool, linen, or leather, and the quality and style could indicate one's social status or occupation. The well-dressed individuals in biblical narratives were often those who held positions of authority or favor, yet the Scriptures consistently point to the greater importance of spiritual adornment. In summary, the concept of being well-dressed in the Bible transcends mere physical appearance, pointing instead to the virtues and righteousness that characterize a life devoted to God. Through both literal and metaphorical uses of clothing, Scripture teaches that true adornment comes from a heart aligned with God's will and purposes. Greek 2866. kompsoteron -- well-dressed ... well-dressed. Part of Speech: Adverb, Comparative Transliteration: kompsoteron Phonetic Spelling: (komp-sot'-er-on) Short Definition: in better health Definition ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2866.htm - 6k Library Port of Spain Wesley in the Fens Letter i. Behavior and Manners. A Short Home Mission Sermon. From a Hindu Point of view When He was Living at Rome He Wrote a Treatise on the Preservation ... Wesley and his Barber Wesley's Prescriptions Wesley at Matlock Bath and Boston Trophies of Grace Thesaurus Well-dressed (1 Occurrence)Well-dressed. Well-doing, Well-dressed. Well-driven . Multi-Version Concordance Well-dressed (1 Occurrence). Isaiah ... /w/well-dressed.htm - 6k Well-doing (9 Occurrences) Gallant (1 Occurrence) Well-driven (1 Occurrence) Donning (1 Occurrence) Plucked-out (1 Occurrence) Putrefaction (1 Occurrence) Cutting-off (1 Occurrence) Sash (16 Occurrences) Ornaments (50 Occurrences) Resources Will we be naked in Heaven? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Tammuz? | GotQuestions.org Should a Christian play multi-player fantasy games like Dungeons and Dragons? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Well-dressed (1 Occurrence)Isaiah 3:24 Subtopics Related Terms |
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