Topical Bible: Head: Shaven when Vows Were Taken

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In the biblical context, the act of shaving one's head is often associated with the taking or completion of certain vows, particularly the Nazirite vow. This practice is deeply rooted in the cultural and religious traditions of ancient Israel and carries significant spiritual symbolism.

Nazirite Vow:

The most prominent instance of head shaving in relation to vows is found in the Nazirite vow, as detailed in Numbers 6. The Nazirite vow was a special commitment made by an individual to separate themselves unto the LORD for a specific period. During this time, the Nazirite was to abstain from wine, refrain from cutting their hair, and avoid contact with dead bodies. At the conclusion of the vow, the individual was required to shave their head as part of the purification and completion process.

Numbers 6:18 states: "Then the Nazirite is to shave his consecrated head at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting, take the hair from his head, and put it on the fire under the peace offering."

This act of shaving the head signified the end of the vow and the fulfillment of the Nazirite's commitment to God. The hair, which had grown during the period of separation, was considered holy and was offered as a sacrifice, symbolizing the Nazirite's devotion and the completion of their vow.

Paul's Vow:

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul is recorded as having taken a vow that involved shaving his head. Acts 18:18 notes: "Paul stayed on in Corinth for quite some time before saying goodbye to the brothers. He had his hair cut off at Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken."

While the specifics of Paul's vow are not detailed, the act of shaving his head indicates a connection to Jewish customs and possibly a Nazirite-like vow. This demonstrates the continuity of certain Jewish practices into the early Christian era and highlights the importance of vows in expressing religious devotion.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance:

The act of shaving one's head in the context of vows is rich with cultural and spiritual meaning. It represents a physical manifestation of an inner spiritual commitment. The hair, which is often seen as a symbol of strength and vitality, is offered to God as a sign of humility and submission. This practice underscores the seriousness with which vows were taken and the desire to honor God through personal sacrifice and dedication.

In summary, the shaving of the head when vows were taken is a significant biblical practice that reflects deep spiritual commitment and the fulfillment of one's promises to God. It serves as a powerful symbol of devotion, purification, and the completion of a sacred obligation.

Nave's Topical Index

Acts 21:24
Them take, and purify yourself with them, and be at charges with them, that they may shave their heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning you, are nothing; but that you yourself also walk orderly, and keep the law.
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Library

Personal Characteristics.
... a benign countenance, his face smoothly shaven, a kindly eye ... have been witnesses
of the solemn vows and engagements ... mystic was he without losing his head in the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/maclean/william black/vi personal characteristics.htm

Of the Five Sacraments, Falsely So Called. Their Spuriousness ...
... Church: these men wrest it to a few shaven crowns, as ... the more simple, that Paul
never shaved his head for any ... Vows of this kind I am accustomed to call vows ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 19 of the five.htm

Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ...
... light: Wherefore like other men, if I am shaven, I shall ... me roll, The weeds were
wrapt about my head, I went ... sacrifice to thee on high, And pay my vows which I ...
/.../scriptural poems being several portions.htm