In biblical times, clothing was not only a necessity but also a symbol of status, identity, and religious significance. The term "gown" as understood in contemporary language does not appear explicitly in the Bible; however, garments akin to gowns are referenced throughout Scripture, often described as robes, tunics, or mantles. These garments were typically long, flowing, and worn by both men and women, serving various purposes from daily wear to ceremonial attire.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, garments resembling gowns were common among the Israelites and surrounding cultures. The Hebrew word "me'il" is often translated as "robe" or "mantle" and can be considered similar to a gown. For instance, the high priest wore a robe as part of his sacred vestments (Exodus 28:31-35). This robe was made of blue cloth and adorned with pomegranates and bells, signifying its ceremonial importance.

Prophets and leaders also wore distinctive robes. Samuel's mother, Hannah, made him a little robe each year (1 Samuel 2:19), indicating the robe's role in religious service and dedication. Elijah's mantle, which he passed on to Elisha, symbolized the transfer of prophetic authority (2 Kings 2:13-14).

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, garments similar to gowns are mentioned in various contexts. The Greek word "himation" is often translated as "robe" or "cloak." Jesus criticized the Pharisees for their ostentatious display of long robes, which they wore to gain public admiration (Luke 20:46: "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and love greetings in the marketplaces, the chief seats in the synagogues, and the places of honor at banquets").

The parable of the prodigal son also highlights the significance of a robe as a symbol of honor and restoration. Upon the son's return, the father commands his servants to bring out the best robe and put it on him (Luke 15:22), signifying forgiveness and acceptance.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

Throughout the Bible, garments akin to gowns carry deep symbolic meanings. They often represent righteousness, authority, and divine favor. In Isaiah 61:10, the prophet rejoices in the Lord, saying, "For He has clothed me with garments of salvation and wrapped me in a robe of righteousness." This imagery underscores the spiritual transformation and covering provided by God.

In Revelation, the imagery of white robes is prevalent, symbolizing purity and victory. The saints are described as wearing white robes, having washed them in the blood of the Lamb (Revelation 7:14). This signifies their redemption and sanctification through Christ.

Cultural and Historical Insights

The construction and style of gowns or robes in biblical times varied based on social status, occasion, and climate. Wealthier individuals and those in positions of authority often wore more elaborate and finely crafted garments. The materials used ranged from simple wool or linen to more luxurious fabrics like silk and fine linen, often dyed in vibrant colors.

In summary, while the specific term "gown" is not used in the Bible, garments resembling gowns played a significant role in biblical narratives, symbolizing authority, religious devotion, and spiritual truths. These garments, whether worn by priests, prophets, or ordinary people, were integral to the cultural and religious life of the biblical world.1. (n.) A loose, flowing upper garment

2. (n.) The ordinary outer dress of a woman; as, a calico or silk gown.

3. (n.) The official robe of certain professional men and scholars, as university students and officers, barristers, judges, etc.; hence, the dress of peace; the dress of civil officers, in distinction from military.

4. (n.) A loose wrapper worn by gentlemen within doors; a dressing gown.

5. (n.) Any sort of dress or garb.

4749. stole -- equipment, apparel
... long robe. From stello; equipment, ie (specially), a "stole" or long-fitting gown
(as a mark of dignity) -- long clothing (garment), (long) robe. ...
//strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4749.htm - 7k6361. petash -- (a garment) perhaps leggings
... hose. (Aramaic) from a root corresponding to that of pattiysh; a gown (as if hammered
out wide) -- hose. see HEBREW pattiysh. 6360, 6361. petash. 6362 . ...
/hebrew/6361.htm - 6k

Virtues of the Mantle. It Pleads in Its Own Defence.
... It Pleads in Its Own Defence. "Still," say you, "must we thus change from
gown [61] to Mantle?" Why, what if from diadem and sceptre? ...
/.../tertullian/on the pallium/chapter v virtues of the mantle.htm

Elucidations.
... He thus identifies the pallium with the gown of Justin Martyr; [75] nor can there
be any reasonable doubt that the pallium of the West was the counterpart of ...
//christianbookshelf.org/tertullian/on the pallium/elucidations.htm

When Diamond Got Round the Corner of the Hay...
... same moment there was horse Diamond's great head poked out of his box on to the
ladder, for he knew boy Diamond although he was in his night-gown, and wanted ...
/.../macdonald/at the back of the north wind/chapter 2 when diamond got.htm

Measures to Promote Revivals.
... And then he must wear a gown. ... Now, how came people to suppose a minister
must have a gown or a wig, in order to preach with effect? ...
/.../finney/lectures on revivals of religion/lecture xiv measures to promote.htm

Time Changes Nations' Dresses --And Fortunes.
... Taurus reared your ramparts, and Sentius Saturninus pronounced the solemn form of
your inauguration,"while concord lends her aid, the gown is offered. Well! ...
/.../tertullian/on the pallium/chapter i time changes nations dressesand.htm

On Dress.
... Have you nothing to cover you but that thin gown?" She said, "Sir, this is all I
have." I put my hand in my pocket, but found no money left, having just paid ...
/.../orr/food for the lambs or helps for young christians/on dress.htm

Introductory Note to the Writings of Justin Martyr
... Justin cannot be refuted by a sneer. He wore his philosopher's gown after his
conversion, as a token that he had attained the only true philosophy. ...
/.../justin/the first apology of justin/introductory note to the writings.htm

George Buchanan, Scholar
... and Muretus, and their friend Andrea Govea, Ronsard, the French court poet, said
that they had nothing of the pedagogue about them but the gown and cap. ...
/.../kingsley/historical lectures and essays/george buchanan scholar.htm

Of the Power and Authoritie Given to Synods.
... Suppose the Church of Corinth (or any other Church or Synod) should enjoyn
their Ministers to preach in a gown. A gown is a decent ...
/.../the keyes of the kingdom of heaven and power thereof/chap vi of the power.htm

Rondelet, {7} the Huguenot Naturalist {8}
... two years old, and a distinguished savant; so they excused him his three years'
undergraduate's career, and invested him at once with the red gown of the ...
/.../kingsley/historical lectures and essays/rondelet 7 the huguenot naturalist.htm

Gown (1 Occurrence)
... 2. (n.) The ordinary outer dress of a woman; as, a calico or silk gown. ... 4. (n.)
A loose wrapper worn by gentlemen within doors; a dressing gown. ...
/g/gown.htm - 7k

Frock
... 1. (n.) A loose outer garment; especially, a gown forming a part of European modern
costume for women and children; also, a coarse shirt like garment worn by ...
/f/frock.htm - 7k

Goyim (7 Occurrences)

/g/goyim.htm - 8k

Governorship (1 Occurrence)

/g/governorship.htm - 6k

Garment (143 Occurrences)
... Noah Webster's Dictionary (n.) Any article of clothing, as a coat, a gown,
etc. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. BABYLONISH GARMENT. ...
/g/garment.htm - 37k

Train (17 Occurrences)
... 12. (v.) That part of a gown which trails behind the wearer. 13. (n.) The after
part of a gun carriage; the trail. 14. (n.) The tail of a bird. 15. ...
/t/train.htm - 14k

Presentable (2 Occurrences)
... hence, fitted to be introduced to another, or to go into society; as, ideas that
are presentable in simple language; she is not presentable in such a gown. ...
/p/presentable.htm - 7k

Pluck (41 Occurrences)
... 4. (vt) To reject at an examination for degrees. 5. (vi) To make a motion of pulling
or twitching; -- usually with at; as, to pluck at one's gown. ...
/p/pluck.htm - 19k

Bedstead (1 Occurrence)
... For the very poor of the East, in ancient times as now, the "bed" was and is, as
a rule, the bare ground; and the bedclothes, the gown, simlah, or "outer ...
/b/bedstead.htm - 18k

Bed (142 Occurrences)
... For the very poor of the East, in ancient times as now, the "bed" was and is, as
a rule, the bare ground; and the bedclothes, the gown, simlah, or "outer ...
/b/bed.htm - 52k

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