Topical Bible: Dress: Kerchiefs

◄ Dress: Kerchiefs ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, clothing and accessories often held significant cultural and symbolic meanings. Among these, kerchiefs are mentioned in the context of ancient Israelite attire, particularly in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament. The term "kerchief" refers to a type of head covering or scarf, which was commonly worn by women.

Biblical References:

The primary biblical reference to kerchiefs is found in the book of Ezekiel. In Ezekiel 13:18, the prophet condemns certain women in Israel for their deceptive practices, saying, "This is what the Lord GOD says: 'Woe to the women who sew magic bands on all their wrists and make veils of every size for their heads to ensnare souls. Will you ensnare the souls of My people but preserve your own?'" . Here, the term "veils" is often understood to include kerchiefs, which were used in a superstitious or idolatrous context.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance:

Kerchiefs, as part of the broader category of veils and head coverings, were a common element of women's dress in ancient Near Eastern cultures. They served practical purposes, such as protection from the sun and dust, as well as modesty. However, in the passage from Ezekiel, these kerchiefs are associated with false prophecy and manipulation, indicating a misuse of what might otherwise be a benign or even virtuous garment.

The use of kerchiefs in this context highlights the tension between outward appearances and inner spiritual realities. While the kerchief itself is a neutral item, its use in deceptive practices underscores the biblical theme that God looks beyond external appearances to the heart and intentions of individuals (1 Samuel 16:7).

Historical Context:

In the ancient world, head coverings were often indicative of social status, marital status, and religious identity. The specific mention of kerchiefs in Ezekiel suggests that these items were not merely functional but also carried deeper connotations, possibly linked to the spiritual or mystical practices of the time. The prophet's rebuke serves as a warning against the blending of pagan customs with the worship of Yahweh, a recurring issue in Israel's history.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the mention of kerchiefs in Ezekiel serves as a reminder of the importance of sincerity and truth in worship. The misuse of such garments in the pursuit of false prophecy and manipulation is condemned, reflecting the broader biblical principle that true worship must be grounded in spirit and truth (John 4:24).

In summary, while kerchiefs were a common and practical element of dress in biblical times, their mention in Scripture, particularly in Ezekiel, serves as a caution against the misuse of cultural practices in ways that lead people away from genuine faith and obedience to God.

Nave's Topical Index

Ezekiel 13:18,21
And say, Thus said the Lord GOD; Woe to the women that sew pillows to all armholes, and make kerchiefs on the head of every stature to hunt souls! Will you hunt the souls of my people, and will you save the souls alive that come to you?
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Ezekiel xiii. 22
... said of the pillows with what immediately follows about the kerchiefs put upon the
head, we may suppose that both are but parts of a fantastic dress, such as ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/arnold/the christian life/lecture xx ezekiel xiii 22.htm

David the Shepherd Youth.
... he found him, he ordered him and his sons to wash and dress and come ... men of the village
stood round him in their rough cloaks and striped kerchiefs, looking on ...
/.../anonymous/children of the old testament/david the shepherd youth.htm

part ii
... it clings to earthly delights: to food, drink, carnal pleasures; to money, to this
dross, to dress, to this corruption, to perishable colours, to patterns, to ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm