Topical Encyclopedia Byssus is a term found in the Bible that refers to a fine, high-quality linen, often associated with luxury, purity, and sacredness. This fabric is mentioned in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, highlighting its significance in ancient Israelite culture and religious practices.Biblical References and Usage Byssus is primarily noted for its use in the construction of the Tabernacle and the garments of the priests. In Exodus 26:1, the instructions for the Tabernacle include the use of "fine twisted linen" , which is understood to be byssus. This linen was used for the curtains of the Tabernacle, signifying the purity and holiness required in the dwelling place of God among His people. The priestly garments, particularly those of the High Priest, also incorporated byssus. Exodus 28:39 describes the making of the tunic of fine linen, a key component of the High Priest's attire. The use of byssus in these garments underscored the sanctity and set-apart nature of the priestly office. In addition to its religious applications, byssus was a symbol of wealth and status. Proverbs 31:22 mentions the virtuous woman who "makes coverings for her bed; her clothing is fine linen and purple" , indicating the association of byssus with prosperity and noble character. Cultural and Historical Context Byssus was highly prized in the ancient Near East for its quality and durability. The process of producing this fine linen was labor-intensive, involving the careful spinning and weaving of flax fibers. The resulting fabric was not only beautiful but also long-lasting, making it a valuable commodity. The significance of byssus extended beyond Israel. It was a luxury item traded across the ancient world, often used by royalty and the elite. The Egyptians, known for their advanced textile production, were particularly renowned for their fine linen, which was likely similar to the byssus mentioned in the Bible. Symbolism and Theological Implications In the biblical narrative, byssus serves as a symbol of purity and righteousness. The use of this fine linen in the Tabernacle and priestly garments reflects the holiness required in approaching God. It represents the divine standard of purity that God demands from His people, both in worship and in daily living. The New Testament continues this symbolism, where fine linen is associated with the righteous acts of the saints. Revelation 19:8 states, "She was given clothing of fine linen, bright and pure. For the fine linen she wears is the righteous acts of the saints" . This imagery connects the physical purity of byssus with the spiritual purity expected of believers. Byssus, therefore, is more than just a fabric; it is a profound symbol woven into the fabric of biblical theology, representing the intersection of divine holiness and human response. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A cloth of exceedingly fine texture, used by the ancients. It is disputed whether it was of cotton, linen, or silk.2. (n.) A tuft of long, tough filaments which are formed in a groove of the foot, and issue from between the valves of certain bivalve mollusks, as the Pinna and Mytilus, by which they attach themselves to rocks, etc. 3. (n.) An obsolete name for certain fungi composed of slender threads. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia BYSSUSbis'-us. Greek 1040. bussos -- byssus (a species of flax), also (the) linen (made ... ... byssus (a species of flax), also (the) linen (made from it). Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: bussos Phonetic Spelling: (boos'-sos) Short ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1040.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 948. buts -- byssus... 947, 948. buts. 949 . byssus. Transliteration: buts Phonetic Spelling: (boots) Short Definition: linen. Word Origin from an unused ... /hebrew/948.htm - 6k 8336. shesh -- byssus 3768. karpas -- cotton or fine linen Library Second Great Group of Parables. That the Ruler Should be Always Chief in Action. The Unjust Steward - Dives and Lazarus - Jewish Agricultural Notes ... Index i. Of Subjects On Clothes. Chapter xli The Creation of Moving Creatures. Alexandria and Rome - the Jewish Communities in the Capitals of ... Thesaurus Byssus (40 Occurrences)... 4. (n.) Asbestus. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. BYSSUS. bis'-us. See LINEN. Multi-Version Concordance Byssus (40 Occurrences). ... /b/byssus.htm - 19k Byssus-workers (1 Occurrence) Artistic (14 Occurrences) Embroidery (12 Occurrences) Ornamental (4 Occurrences) Caps (5 Occurrences) Vest (11 Occurrences) Linen (111 Occurrences) Artificer (13 Occurrences) Entrance (190 Occurrences) Resources Byssus: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Byssus (40 Occurrences)Genesis 41:42 Exodus 25:4 Exodus 26:1 Exodus 26:31 Exodus 26:36 Exodus 27:9 Exodus 27:16 Exodus 27:18 Exodus 28:5 Exodus 28:6 Exodus 28:8 Exodus 28:39 Exodus 35:6 Exodus 35:23 Exodus 35:25 Exodus 35:35 Exodus 36:8 Exodus 36:35 Exodus 36:37 Exodus 38:9 Exodus 38:16 Exodus 38:18 Exodus 38:23 Exodus 39:2 Exodus 39:3 Exodus 39:5 Exodus 39:8 Exodus 39:27 Exodus 39:28 Exodus 39:29 1 Chronicles 15:27 2 Chronicles 2:14 2 Chronicles 3:14 2 Chronicles 5:12 Esther 1:6 Esther 8:15 Proverbs 31:22 Ezekiel 16:10 Ezekiel 16:13 Ezekiel 27:7 Subtopics Related Terms |