Topical Bible: Dress: Various Articles of Many-Colored

◄ Dress: Various Articles of Many-Colored ►

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In the biblical context, clothing often holds significant symbolic meaning, reflecting cultural, social, and spiritual dimensions. Many-colored garments, in particular, are mentioned in several passages, often denoting status, favor, or distinctiveness.

Joseph's Coat of Many Colors

One of the most famous references to a many-colored garment is the coat given to Joseph by his father Jacob. In Genesis 37:3, the Berean Standard Bible states, "Now Israel loved Joseph more than his other sons because he had been born to him in his old age; so he made him a robe of many colors." This garment symbolized Jacob's special affection for Joseph, setting him apart from his brothers and ultimately contributing to their jealousy and the subsequent events that led to Joseph's enslavement in Egypt.

The Hebrew term used for Joseph's coat, "ketonet passim," has been variously translated as a "robe of many colors," "a richly ornamented robe," or "a long-sleeved robe." The exact nature of the garment is debated, but its significance as a mark of favor and distinction is clear.

Royal and Priestly Garments

Many-colored garments are also associated with royalty and priesthood in the Scriptures. In 2 Samuel 13:18, Tamar, the daughter of King David, is described as wearing "a richly ornamented robe, for this is how the virgin daughters of the king dressed." This indicates that such garments were a sign of royal status and purity.

The high priest's garments, as described in Exodus 28, though not explicitly called "many-colored," were made with "gold, and blue, and purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen" (Exodus 28:5). These colors were significant, representing various aspects of God's covenant and the priestly role as a mediator between God and the people.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

In biblical symbolism, colors often carry deep meanings. For instance, white represents purity and righteousness, while purple signifies royalty and authority. The use of multiple colors in a single garment can symbolize a combination of these attributes, reflecting a person’s unique role or divine favor.

The many-colored garments in Scripture can also be seen as a foreshadowing of the diversity and unity in the body of Christ. Just as a garment is made up of various threads and colors, so the Church is composed of individuals from different backgrounds, each contributing to the beauty and function of the whole.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, clothing was an important indicator of social status and identity. The production of dyed fabrics was labor-intensive and costly, making many-colored garments a luxury item often reserved for the elite. The ability to produce and wear such garments signified wealth and power.

The biblical narratives that include many-colored garments often highlight themes of favoritism, jealousy, and the consequences of human actions. They serve as reminders of the complexities of family dynamics and the providence of God in the unfolding of His plans.

Conclusion

The biblical references to many-colored garments provide rich insights into the cultural, social, and spiritual life of the ancient world. They highlight themes of favor, distinction, and the multifaceted nature of God's work among His people.

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2 Samuel 13:18
And she had a garment of divers colors on her: for with such robes were the king's daughters that were virgins appareled. Then his servant brought her out, and bolted the door after her.
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His Unconscious Preparation for his Work
... kind of cloth and manufactured into various articles, among which ... which they dwelt
but, in dress, food, religion ... to fame"the pile of many-colored robes at ...
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