Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, clothing was not only a necessity but also a significant cultural and religious symbol. Among the various articles of dress mentioned in the Bible, the mantle holds a particular significance. The mantle, often a large outer garment, served multiple purposes, from providing warmth to symbolizing authority and prophetic office.Hebrew Context and Usage The Hebrew word for mantle is "me'il," which generally refers to an outer garment or robe. It was typically worn over other clothing and could be made of wool, linen, or other materials. The mantle was a versatile piece of clothing, used by both men and women, and its design and material often indicated the wearer's social status or role. Prophetic Symbolism One of the most notable uses of the mantle in the Bible is its association with prophets. The mantle was a symbol of the prophetic office and authority. In 1 Kings 19:19, Elijah casts his mantle upon Elisha, signifying the transfer of prophetic authority: "So Elijah went from there and found Elisha son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself was driving the twelfth pair. Elijah passed by him and threw his cloak around him" . This act was a powerful symbol of Elisha's calling and future role as a prophet. Royal and Priestly Garments The mantle also appears in contexts involving royalty and priesthood. In 1 Samuel 15:27, Saul's tearing of Samuel's mantle symbolizes the kingdom being torn from him: "As Samuel turned to go, Saul grabbed the hem of his robe, and it tore" . This incident underscores the mantle's representation of authority and divine appointment. In the priestly context, the mantle was part of the high priest's attire, as described in Exodus 28:31-35. The high priest's robe, or "me'il," was made of blue cloth and adorned with pomegranates and bells, signifying holiness and the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people. Cultural and Practical Aspects Beyond its symbolic meanings, the mantle was a practical garment. It provided warmth and protection against the elements. In Ruth 3:9, Ruth asks Boaz to spread his garment over her, a gesture of protection and a request for redemption: "Who are you?" he asked. "I am your servant Ruth," she replied. "Spread the corner of your garment over me, for you are a kinsman-redeemer" . The mantle could also serve as a makeshift bedroll or blanket, as seen in Exodus 22:26-27, where the law requires the return of a neighbor's cloak by sunset if taken as a pledge: "If you take your neighbor’s cloak as collateral, return it to him by sunset, because his cloak is the only covering he has for his body. What else will he sleep in?" . Conclusion The mantle in biblical times was more than just a piece of clothing; it was a multifaceted garment rich in symbolism and practicality. Whether signifying prophetic authority, royal status, or serving as a simple protective covering, the mantle played a significant role in the cultural and religious life of ancient Israel. Nave's Topical Index Ezra 9:3And when I heard this thing, I rent my garment and my mantle, and plucked off the hair of my head and of my beard, and sat down astonished. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 19:13 1 Chronicles 15:27 Job 1:20 Library The Story of Panthea. The Healing of the Woman - Christ's Personal Appearance - the ... Imperial Tombs. The Close of the Theban Empire --(Continued) The Nile and Egypt The Deputation from Jerusalem - the Three Sects of the Pharisees ... From the Close of the General Conference of 1812 to the Death of ... The Reaction against Egypt Ancient Chaldaea The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria Resources Who are the Mennonites, and what are their beliefs? | GotQuestions.orgShould Christian women wear pants (trousers)? | GotQuestions.org What is Hasidic Judaism? What do Hasidic Jews believe? | GotQuestions.org Dress: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Dress of the Head: Bonnets (R. V., Head-Tires), Prescribed by Moses, for the Priests Dress: Bonnets (Rv , Head-Tires), Worn by Women Dress: Ceremonial Purification of Dress: Changes of Clothes, the Folly of Excessive Dress: Filthy, of Unrighteousness Dress: Hats (Turbans, RV Margin), Worn by Men Dress: Men Forbidden to Wear Women's, and Women Forbidden to Wear Men's Dress: Mixed Materials In, Forbidden Dress: Not to be Held Overnight As a Pledge for Debt Dress: Presents Made of Changes of Clothes Dress: Rules With Respect to Women's Dress: Sleeveless Shirt, Called Coat Dress: Symbolical: Filthy, of Iniquity Dress: Uniform Vestments Kept in Store for Worshipers of Baal Dress: Various Articles of Mantle Dress: Various Articles of Many-Colored Dress: Various Articles of Purple Related Terms |
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