Topical Encyclopedia The term "carpeted" does not appear explicitly in the Bible; however, the concept of covering floors with textiles or similar materials can be inferred from various scriptural contexts. In ancient times, the use of carpets or similar coverings was often associated with wealth, status, and ceremonial occasions.Biblical Context and Symbolism 1. Tabernacle and Temple Furnishings: While the Bible does not specifically mention carpets, the use of fine materials in the construction and furnishing of sacred spaces is well-documented. The Tabernacle, as described in Exodus, was adorned with rich textiles. Exodus 26:1 states, "You are to construct the tabernacle itself with ten curtains of finely spun linen, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully worked into them." These curtains, though not carpets, reflect the use of luxurious materials in holy settings. 2. Royal and Noble Residences: In the ancient Near East, carpets were often used in the homes of the wealthy and powerful. While the Bible does not provide detailed descriptions of flooring in royal residences, the opulence of King Solomon's palace, for example, suggests the possibility of such adornments. 1 Kings 10:21 notes, "All King Solomon’s drinking vessels were gold, and all the utensils of the House of the Forest of Lebanon were pure gold. There was no silver, because it was considered worthless in the days of Solomon." 3. Symbol of Honor and Respect: The act of laying down garments or similar items on the ground as a sign of honor is seen in the Bible. In 2 Kings 9:13 , when Jehu is anointed king, "each man quickly took his garment and put it under Jehu on the bare steps. Then they blew the ram’s horn and proclaimed, 'Jehu is king!'" This act of laying garments can be likened to the use of carpets to honor someone of high status. 4. New Testament Imagery: In the New Testament, the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem is marked by a similar gesture. Matthew 21:8 describes, "A massive crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road." This act of spreading cloaks and branches can be seen as a form of creating a "carpeted" path, symbolizing reverence and recognition of Jesus' kingship. Cultural and Historical Insights In biblical times, the use of textiles for floor coverings would have been a sign of affluence and hospitality. Carpets, as we understand them today, were likely rare and reserved for the wealthy or for special occasions. The cultural practice of using textiles to cover floors or pathways reflects a broader ancient Near Eastern tradition of using rich materials to denote sacredness, honor, and celebration. Theological Reflections From a theological perspective, the use of fine materials in sacred and royal contexts underscores the biblical themes of God's majesty and the honor due to Him. The imagery of laying down garments or creating a path of honor for Jesus during His triumphal entry serves as a powerful symbol of worship and acknowledgment of His divine authority. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Carpet.Library Quaker City Excursion Those for whom Christ Prayed --"Sanctify Them. " Home and the Home-Maker. Simon Peter's Faith in Christ The Procession of Amen Guests at an Imperial Banquet March 12, 1899. The Swift Decay of Love Christian Experience. The Cocal Thesaurus Carpeted (2 Occurrences)... (imp. & pp) of Carpet. Multi-Version Concordance Carpeted (2 Occurrences). ... Luke 19:36 So He rode on, while they carpeted the road with their garments. (WEY). ... /c/carpeted.htm - 7k Kept (891 Occurrences) Garments (232 Occurrences) Foot (193 Occurrences) Tables (41 Occurrences) Rode (22 Occurrences) Carpet (1 Occurrence) Carpets (3 Occurrences) Along (500 Occurrences) Spreading (74 Occurrences) Resources Carpeted: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Carpeted (2 Occurrences)Matthew 21:8 Luke 19:36 Subtopics Related Terms |