Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, headbands were part of the attire worn by various individuals, often serving both practical and symbolic purposes. The use of headbands is mentioned in several contexts within the Scriptures, reflecting cultural practices and religious significance.Cultural and Practical Use Headbands were commonly used in ancient Near Eastern cultures, including among the Israelites, as a means of securing the hair and as a decorative accessory. They were often made from cloth or leather and could be adorned with jewels or embroidery. The headband served to keep the hair in place, especially in hot and arid climates, and could also signify a person's social status or role. Religious and Symbolic Significance In the Bible, headbands are sometimes associated with religious attire, particularly in the context of priestly garments. For example, the high priest's attire included a headpiece known as the "turban," which was adorned with a gold plate inscribed with "Holy to the LORD" (Exodus 28:36-38). While not explicitly called a headband, the turban served a similar function in terms of securing the head and signifying holiness and dedication to God. Prophetic Imagery The prophet Isaiah uses the imagery of headbands in a metaphorical sense to describe the pride and eventual downfall of the daughters of Zion. In Isaiah 3:18-20 , the Lord speaks of removing the finery of the daughters of Zion, including their headbands, as a judgment against their haughtiness and reliance on external adornments rather than inner righteousness. Symbol of Humility and Mourning In some instances, the removal of a headband or the wearing of a simple one could symbolize humility or mourning. The act of removing head adornments was a common expression of grief or repentance in ancient Israelite culture. This practice is reflected in various biblical narratives where individuals express their sorrow or penitence by altering their appearance, including the removal of headbands or other decorative items. Conclusion The headband, while a seemingly minor detail in biblical attire, carries with it a wealth of cultural, religious, and symbolic meanings. Its presence in Scripture highlights the importance of understanding the cultural context of biblical times and the ways in which everyday items were imbued with deeper spiritual significance. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A fillet; a band for the head.2. (n.) The band at each end of the back of a book. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia HEADBANDhed'-band. Strong's Hebrew 7636. shabis -- a headband... 7635, 7636. shabis. 7637 . a headband. Transliteration: shabis Phonetic Spelling: (shaw-beece') Short Definition: headbands. Word ... /hebrew/7636.htm - 5k 7196. qishshurim -- bands, sashes Library Keep for God his Own Property Untainted; He Will Crown it if He ... Acts of Sharbil, who was a Priest of Idols, and was Converted to ... The Teaching of Add??us the Apostle. The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus Thesaurus Headband (2 Occurrences)... a book. Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. HEADBAND. hed'-band. See DRESS. Multi-Version Concordance Headband (2 Occurrences). 1 Kings ... /h/headband.htm - 7k Bandage (5 Occurrences) Disguised (7 Occurrences) Disguising (2 Occurrences) Head-band (2 Occurrences) Waited (72 Occurrences) Head (4291 Occurrences) Recognized (37 Occurrences) Hastened (48 Occurrences) Hurried (48 Occurrences) Resources How could the laws of God be written on doorframes, gates, and foreheads? | GotQuestions.orgHeadband: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Headband (2 Occurrences)1 Kings 20:38 1 Kings 20:41 Subtopics Related Terms |