Topical Encyclopedia Girding, in biblical terms, refers to the act of fastening or securing garments with a belt or sash, often in preparation for action or service. This practice is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing readiness, strength, and commitment. The concept of girding is both literal and metaphorical, appearing in various contexts throughout Scripture.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, girding is often associated with preparation for battle or labor. For instance, in 1 Kings 18:46, we read, "The hand of the LORD came upon Elijah, and he girded up his loins and ran ahead of Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel." Here, girding up the loins signifies readiness and divine empowerment for swift action. The priests in the Tabernacle and Temple also wore girdles as part of their sacred garments, as described in Exodus 28:4: "These are the garments they shall make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a woven tunic, a turban, and a sash." The girdle or sash was an essential part of the priestly attire, symbolizing their consecration and readiness to serve God. New Testament Context In the New Testament, girding takes on a more spiritual dimension. Jesus uses the imagery of girding in His teachings. In Luke 12:35-36, He instructs His disciples, "Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning, like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks, they can open the door for him at once." The phrase "dressed for service" is a call to spiritual vigilance and preparedness for the Lord's return. The Apostle Paul also employs the metaphor of girding in Ephesians 6:14, where he writes, "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place." Here, the "belt of truth" is part of the full armor of God, signifying the importance of truth in the believer's spiritual defense. Symbolism and Application Girding symbolizes readiness and commitment, whether for physical action, spiritual service, or moral integrity. It reflects a state of preparedness and dedication to fulfilling one's duties, whether in daily life or in the service of God. The act of girding oneself is a reminder of the need for vigilance, discipline, and the readiness to respond to God's call. In a broader sense, girding can also represent the strength and support that comes from God. Psalm 18:32 declares, "It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect." The imagery of being girded with strength underscores the divine empowerment that enables believers to overcome challenges and fulfill their God-given purposes. Cultural and Historical Insights In ancient Near Eastern culture, girding was a practical necessity due to the long, flowing garments typically worn. By gathering up these garments and securing them with a belt, individuals could move more freely and efficiently, whether for work, travel, or combat. This cultural practice provides a vivid backdrop for the biblical use of girding as a metaphor for readiness and action. Overall, the concept of girding in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder of the need for spiritual preparedness, moral integrity, and reliance on God's strength in the life of a believer. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Gird.2. (n.) That with which one is girded; a girdle. Greek 328. anazonnumi -- to gird up ... an-ad-zone'-noo-mee) Short Definition: I gird up, brace up Definition: I gird up, brace up (with a view to active exertion); a metaphor from the girding of the ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/328.htm - 7k 4612. simikinthion -- (a workman's) apron Strong's Hebrew 4228. machagoreth -- girding, cincture... 4227, 4228. machagoreth. 4229 . girding, cincture. Transliteration: machagoreth Phonetic Spelling: (makh-ag-o'-reth) Short Definition: donning. ... girding. ... /hebrew/4228.htm - 6k 642. aphuddah -- an ephod Library Psalm XCIII. Youth and Age, and the Command for Both Statement of the Reasons Wherefore the Matters, Treated of Shortly ... The Servant-Lord Conclusion. The Equipment of the Servants Hope Perfectly The Greek Theogony Exposed. God Has Everything to do with Prayer An Exhortation to virtue. Thesaurus Girding (8 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Gird. 2. (n.) That with which one is girded; a girdle. Multi-Version Concordance Girding (8 Occurrences). ... /g/girding.htm - 9k Under-girding (1 Occurrence) Girdle (44 Occurrences) Girdeth (11 Occurrences) Kindling (4 Occurrences) Nob (6 Occurrences) Undergirding Offensive (15 Occurrences) Loosing (7 Occurrences) Lamentation (45 Occurrences) Resources Girding: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Girding (8 Occurrences)John 21:18 1 Peter 1:13 1 Kings 20:11 2 Kings 3:21 Psalms 18:32 Isaiah 3:24 Isaiah 22:12 Isaiah 50:11 Subtopics Related Terms |