The loincloth, a simple garment worn around the hips and waist, is mentioned several times in the Bible, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. In ancient times, the loincloth was a basic piece of clothing, often made from linen or other available materials, and was worn by both men and women. It provided modesty and protection, especially in the hot climates of the Near East.

Biblical References:

1. Jeremiah's Loincloth (Jeremiah 13:1-11): One of the most notable mentions of a loincloth in the Bible is found in the book of Jeremiah. The prophet Jeremiah is instructed by God to purchase a linen loincloth and wear it without washing it. Later, God commands him to hide it in a crevice of the rocks by the Euphrates River. After some time, Jeremiah retrieves the loincloth, now ruined and useless. This act serves as a symbolic representation of the pride of Judah and Jerusalem, which, like the loincloth, was once close to God but became corrupted and worthless due to their disobedience. The Berean Standard Bible states: "For as a loincloth clings to a man’s waist, so I have made the whole house of Israel and the whole house of Judah cling to Me, declares the LORD, that they might be My people, for My renown and praise and glory. But they would not listen" (Jeremiah 13:11).

2. Isaiah's Prophecy (Isaiah 20:2): The prophet Isaiah is instructed by God to walk stripped and barefoot as a sign against Egypt and Cush. The Berean Standard Bible records: "At that time the LORD spoke through Isaiah son of Amoz, saying, 'Go, remove the sackcloth from your waist and the sandals from your feet.' So he did, walking around naked and barefoot" (Isaiah 20:2). While the term "naked" is used, it is understood that Isaiah likely wore only a loincloth, symbolizing the impending shame and humiliation that would befall these nations.

3. John the Baptist (Matthew 3:4): In the New Testament, John the Baptist is described as wearing clothing made of camel's hair with a leather belt around his waist. While not explicitly called a loincloth, this attire reflects a simple and humble lifestyle, reminiscent of the prophets of old. The Berean Standard Bible notes: "John wore a garment of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey" (Matthew 3:4).

Symbolism and Significance:

The loincloth in biblical texts often symbolizes humility, servitude, and the close relationship between God and His people. It serves as a metaphor for the intimate bond that God desires with His followers, as well as the consequences of turning away from Him. The imagery of the loincloth clinging to the waist is a powerful representation of how God intended Israel to cling to Him, highlighting themes of faithfulness and covenant.

In the broader biblical narrative, clothing, including the loincloth, frequently carries deeper spiritual meanings, reflecting the condition of the heart and the nature of one's relationship with God. The use of the loincloth in prophetic acts underscores the importance of obedience and the dire consequences of spiritual neglect and pride.

Ancestors of the Blessed virgin
... The lower part of his body was wrapped in a loincloth, while breast and shoulders
were covered with this sacred garment, which I will describe as exactly as I ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/i ancestors of the blessed.htm

Ancient Chaldaea
History Of Egypt, Chaldaea, Syria, Babylonia, and Assyria, V 3. <. ...
/.../chapter iancient chaldaea.htm

Loincloth (4 Occurrences)
...Loincloth (4 Occurrences). Matthew 3:4 This man John wore a garment of camel's hair,
and a loincloth of leather; and he lived upon locusts and wild honey. (WEY) ...
/l/loincloth.htm - 7k

Garment (143 Occurrences)
... Garment (143 Occurrences). Matthew 3:4 This man John wore a garment of camel's hair,
and a loincloth of leather; and he lived upon locusts and wild honey. ...
/g/garment.htm - 37k

Owner (56 Occurrences)
... Acts 21:11 When he arrived he took Paul's loincloth, and bound his own feet and
arms with it, and said, "Thus says the Holy Spirit, 'So will the Jews in ...
/o/owner.htm - 24k

Arrived (129 Occurrences)
... Acts 21:11 When he arrived he took Paul's loincloth, and bound his own feet and
arms with it, and said, "Thus says the Holy Spirit, 'So will the Jews in ...
/a/arrived.htm - 33k

Loin (2 Occurrences)

/l/loin.htm - 7k

Wore (19 Occurrences)
... (WEB WEY RSV). Mark 1:6 As for John, his garment was of camel's hair, and he wore
a loincloth of leather; and his food was locusts and wild honey. (WEY NAS NIV) ...
/w/wore.htm - 11k

Arms (166 Occurrences)
... Acts 21:11 When he arrived he took Paul's loincloth, and bound his own feet and
arms with it, and said, "Thus says the Holy Spirit, 'So will the Jews in ...
/a/arms.htm - 56k

Loins (72 Occurrences)

/l/loins.htm - 33k

Dress (38 Occurrences)
... A "loincloth" of "linen" was worn by the priests of early times and bore the
special name of 'ephodh (1 Samuel 2:18; compare 2 Samuel 6:14). ...
/d/dress.htm - 53k

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