Topical Encyclopedia Embroidery, the art of decorating fabric with needle and thread, holds a significant place in biblical history and culture, particularly in the context of women's garments. This intricate craft is mentioned in various passages of the Bible, highlighting its importance and the skill involved in its creation.In the ancient Near Eastern context, embroidery was a symbol of wealth, status, and artistry. The Bible provides several references to embroidered garments, often associating them with beauty and splendor. For instance, in Ezekiel 16:10, the Lord describes His care for Jerusalem using the imagery of clothing: "I clothed you with embroidered cloth and put sandals of fine leather on your feet. I wrapped you in fine linen and covered you with silk." Here, embroidered cloth is part of a metaphor for divine favor and blessing, indicating the high value placed on such garments. The Proverbs 31 woman, an idealized figure of virtue and industriousness, is also associated with fine clothing. Proverbs 31:22 states, "She makes coverings for her bed; her clothing is fine linen and purple." While embroidery is not explicitly mentioned, the reference to fine linen and purple suggests garments of high quality, which often included embroidered elements. In the New Testament, 1 Timothy 2:9 advises women on modesty and propriety in dress: "Likewise, I want the women to adorn themselves with respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes." While this passage does not directly mention embroidery, it reflects the broader biblical theme of valuing inner beauty and character over outward adornment. Embroidered garments, while beautiful, are to be worn with a spirit of modesty and humility. The cultural and religious significance of embroidery in biblical times is further underscored by its use in the Tabernacle and the garments of the priests. Exodus 28:39 describes the making of the priestly garments: "You are to weave the tunic with fine linen, make the turban of fine linen, and fashion the sash with embroidery." This indicates that embroidery was not only a domestic craft but also a sacred art, used in the service of worship and the adornment of holy spaces. In summary, embroidery on the garments of women in the Bible is depicted as a craft of beauty and skill, reflecting both cultural values and spiritual truths. It serves as a metaphor for divine care and blessing, while also reminding believers of the importance of modesty and the prioritization of inner virtues over external appearances. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 45:14She shall be brought to the king in raiment of needlework: the virgins her companions that follow her shall be brought to you. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 16:10,13,18 Library Marriage of the Blessed virgin to Joseph On Clothes. A Description of the Temple. The Tomb of Jesus The Purification of Mary Matt. xiv. 13 The Presentation of the Blessed virgin in the Temple The Close of the Theban Empire Chaldaean Civilization The People's Christ Resources Who were Bezalel and Oholiab in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a scarlet letter? | GotQuestions.org Embroidery: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Embroidery in Blue and Purple and Scarlet on the Curtains of the Tabernacle Embroidery: Bezaleel and Aholiab Divinely Inspired For, in the Work of the Tabernacle Embroidery: On the Garments of Princes Embroidery: On the Garments of Sisera Embroidery: On the Garments of Women Embroidery: On the Girdle and Coat of the High Priest, Intermingled With Gold Related Terms |
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