Topical Encyclopedia Goats' hair holds a significant place in the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of the construction of the Tabernacle and its associated furnishings. In the ancient Near East, goats were common domestic animals, valued for their milk, meat, and hair. The hair of goats, especially from the species known as the black goat, was used to produce a coarse fabric that was both durable and weather-resistant, making it an ideal material for various practical applications.Biblical References The most notable mention of goats' hair in the Bible is found in the instructions for the construction of the Tabernacle, as given to Moses on Mount Sinai. In Exodus 25-31, God provides detailed specifications for the Tabernacle, a portable sanctuary that would serve as the dwelling place of the Divine Presence among the Israelites during their wilderness journey. In Exodus 26:7, the use of goats' hair is specified: "You are to make curtains of goats' hair for a tent over the tabernacle—eleven curtains in all." These curtains formed the second layer of covering for the Tabernacle, providing additional protection and insulation. The use of goats' hair in this context underscores the material's practical qualities, as it was known for its ability to withstand the elements, offering both durability and protection. Further instructions regarding the construction of the Tabernacle include the dimensions and assembly of these curtains. Exodus 36:14-18 describes the craftsmanship involved: "He made curtains of goats' hair for the tent over the tabernacle—eleven curtains in all. Each of the eleven curtains was thirty cubits long and four cubits wide—all of the same size. He joined five of the curtains into one set and the other six into another set. He made fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain in one set, and fifty loops along the edge of the end curtain in the other set. He also made fifty bronze clasps to join the tent together as a unit." Symbolism and Significance The use of goats' hair in the Tabernacle construction carries symbolic significance. The Tabernacle itself was a physical representation of God's presence among His people, and every material used in its construction held spiritual meaning. Goats' hair, being a humble and common material, reflects the accessibility and approachability of God, who chose to dwell among His people in a simple, portable structure rather than a grandiose temple. Moreover, the choice of goats' hair aligns with the broader biblical theme of God using ordinary means to accomplish His divine purposes. Just as the Tabernacle was constructed from materials readily available to the Israelites, so too does God often work through the ordinary and the humble to manifest His glory and fulfill His covenant promises. Cultural and Historical Context In the cultural and historical context of the ancient Israelites, goats' hair was a practical and valuable resource. The nomadic lifestyle of the Israelites during their wilderness journey necessitated the use of materials that were both lightweight and durable. Goats' hair met these needs, providing a fabric that could be easily transported and assembled. The production of fabric from goats' hair involved spinning the hair into yarn and then weaving it into cloth. This process required skill and craftsmanship, highlighting the contributions of the artisans and craftsmen who were endowed with wisdom and skill by God for the construction of the Tabernacle (Exodus 35:30-35). Conclusion While the Bible does not provide extensive details about the everyday use of goats' hair beyond the Tabernacle, its inclusion in the sacred text underscores its importance in the life and worship of the Israelites. The use of goats' hair in the Tabernacle serves as a reminder of God's provision and the call to use one's resources and skills for His glory. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Goats' HairGOATS' HAIR ('ez): The word for she-goat is used elliptically to mean goats' hair, which was used in the tabernacle furnishings in the form of curtains (Exodus 26:7; Exodus 36:14). Goats' hair was probably used in the Midianite and Israelite camps in much the same way as in the Bedouin camps today (compare Numbers 31:20). The tents, tent ropes and rugs are made of spun goats' hair. The provision sacks which hold wheat, rice, etc., and the saddlebags are made of the same material. A strip of the cloth rolled up furnishes a bolster for the head while sleeping (compare 1 Samuel 19:13, 16). Goats' hair cloth is admirab1y suited to stand the hard usage of a frequently shifting encampment. The children of Israel appreciated its utility, even for the tabernacle, where to the modern critical eye it would have looked out of place, matched against scarlet and fine linen (Exodus 25:4; Exodus 35:6, 26). The fact that goats' hair was used is good indication of the comparative crudeness of the tabernacle, when contrasted with present-day furnishings. ATS Bible Dictionary Goats' HairWas used by Moses in making the curtains of the tabernacle, Exodus 25:4; 26:7; 35:6. The hair of the goats of Asia, Phrygia, and Cilicia, is very bright and fine, and hangs to the ground; in beauty it almost equals silk, and is never sheared, but combed off. The shepherds carefully and frequently wash these goats in rivers. The women of the country spin the hair, which is carried to Angora, where it is worked and dyed, and a considerable trade in the article carried on. The natives attribute the quality of the hair to the soil of the country. The ordinary goats-hair cloth of the Arabs, used for the coverings of tents, etc., is coarse and black; and this is the kind of which the garments of the Hebrew prophets and of the poor were made. Strong's Hebrew 5795. ez -- female goat... goat* (5), young goats* (3). she goat, kid. From azaz; a she-goat (as strong), but masculine in plural (which also is used ellipt. For goat's hair) -- (she) goat ... /hebrew/5795.htm - 6k Library Book ix. On Jerusalem and Her Enemies The Books of Samuel and Kings. Turn Away Thine Eyes from Me, Because they have Made Me to Flee ... When He was Living at Rome He Wrote a Treatise on the Preservation ... Whether Sufficient Reason Can be Assigned for the Ceremonies ... The Power of Little Things. The True Tabernacle, and Its Glory of Grace and Peace Martin Destroys Heathen Temples and Altars. Letter Xlviii. (AD 398. ) Chapter iv. Resources What is the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of the blood of Christ? | GotQuestions.org Who will occupy the Millennial Kingdom? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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