Wool

Wool, a textile fiber obtained from sheep and other animals, holds significant importance in biblical times, both practically and symbolically. In the ancient Near East, wool was a primary material for clothing and other textiles due to its availability and durability. The process of shearing sheep and spinning wool into yarn was a common practice, reflecting the agrarian lifestyle of the Israelites.

In the Bible, wool is often mentioned in the context of clothing and offerings. For instance, in Leviticus 13:47-48, woolen garments are subject to laws concerning leprosy, indicating the material's prevalence in everyday life: "If any fabric is contaminated with mildew—any woolen or linen garment, any weave or knit of linen or wool, or any leather article—" . Wool was also used in the tabernacle, as seen in Exodus 25:4, where blue, purple, and scarlet yarns, along with fine linen, were part of the offerings for the sanctuary.

Symbolically, wool represents purity and righteousness. In Isaiah 1:18, the prophet uses wool to illustrate the cleansing power of God: "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool" . This imagery underscores the transformative power of divine forgiveness.

Wool also appears in the context of economic transactions and wealth. Proverbs 31:13 describes the virtuous woman who "selects wool and flax and works with eager hands" , highlighting industriousness and the value of wool in household management.

Flax

Flax, a plant cultivated for its fibers and seeds, was another essential material in biblical times. The fibers of the flax plant were used to produce linen, a fine and valuable fabric. Linen garments were prized for their quality and were often associated with purity and holiness.

The cultivation and processing of flax are mentioned in several biblical passages. In Exodus 9:31, during the plagues of Egypt, the destruction of flax crops is noted: "Now the flax and barley were destroyed, since the barley was in the ear and the flax was in bloom" . This highlights the agricultural significance of flax in the region.

Flax is also associated with the production of linen garments for religious purposes. In Leviticus 6:10, priests are instructed to wear linen garments: "The priest is to put on his linen robe, with linen undergarments next to his body" . This requirement underscores the association of linen with purity and the sacred duties of the priesthood.

In Proverbs 31:13, flax is mentioned alongside wool in the description of the virtuous woman, emphasizing her industrious nature and the importance of these materials in household economy: "She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands" .

The symbolic use of flax extends to its representation of righteousness and divine favor. In the construction of the tabernacle and the garments of the priests, linen made from flax was a key component, signifying the holiness required in worship and service to God.

In summary, wool and flax are significant materials in the biblical narrative, representing both the practical aspects of daily life and deeper spiritual truths. Their use in clothing, religious rituals, and economic activities reflects the cultural and theological values of the biblical world.