Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the beard holds significant cultural and religious symbolism, often representing wisdom, dignity, and maturity. The wearing of a long beard by Aaron, the brother of Moses and the first high priest of Israel, is particularly noteworthy within the scriptural narrative.Aaron's beard is specifically mentioned in Psalm 133:2, which states, "It is like the precious oil on the head, running down on the beard, on Aaron’s beard, down on the collar of his robes" . This verse highlights the anointing of Aaron, where the oil poured upon his head flows down his beard, symbolizing the consecration and sanctification of the high priest. The imagery of the oil running down Aaron's beard signifies the abundance of God's blessing and the unity of the brethren, as the psalm itself is a celebration of harmony among God's people. The long beard of Aaron also aligns with the cultural practices of the ancient Near East, where beards were commonly worn by men as a sign of honor and respect. In Levitical law, priests were given specific instructions regarding their appearance, which included the maintenance of their beards. Leviticus 21:5 instructs, "They must not make bald patches on their heads, shave off the edges of their beards, or make cuts in their bodies" . This command underscores the importance of maintaining a natural and unblemished appearance, reflecting the holiness required of those serving in the priestly office. Furthermore, the beard served as a distinguishing feature of masculinity and identity within the Israelite community. The act of shaving or cutting the beard was often associated with mourning or disgrace, as seen in other biblical passages. For Aaron, the long beard was not merely a personal choice but a divinely ordained aspect of his role as high priest, symbolizing his dedication to God and his leadership among the Israelites. In summary, Aaron's long beard is a multifaceted symbol within the biblical narrative, representing divine anointing, cultural identity, and the sanctity of the priestly office. Through the imagery of Aaron's beard, Scripture conveys themes of blessing, unity, and the sacred responsibilities entrusted to God's chosen leaders. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 133:2It is like the precious ointment on the head, that ran down on the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; Nave's Topical Index Library A Compendious view of the Christian Life. At the Well The General Conference of 1820 Ancestors of the Blessed virgin Funeral Oration on the Great S. Basil, Bishop of C??sarea in ... The Reaction against Egypt Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians. The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Resources What is a mime? Does the Bible say anything about miming? | GotQuestions.orgThe Shack by William P. Young - a review | GotQuestions.org What is the insider movement? | GotQuestions.org Beard: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Beard: Beards of David's Ambassadors Half Shaven by the King of the Amorites Beard: Idolatrous Practice of Marring, Forbidden Beard: Lepers Required to Shave The Beard in Affliction was Clipped The Beard in Affliction was Neglected and Untrimmed The Beard in Affliction was Shorn The Beard in Affliction: Sometimes Plucked Out The Beard of the Healed Leper to be Shaved The Beard: Corners of, not to be Marred for the Dead The Beard: Dribbling On, a Sign of Derangement The Beard: Laying Hold of, a Token of Respect The Beard: Plucking of, a Sign of Scorn The Beard: Shaving of, a Great Offense The Beard: Shaving, Illustrative of Severe Judgments The Beard: The Jews Never Appeared Without The Beard: Worn Even by the Priests Related Terms |
    |