Topical Bible: Linen: Bedding Made of

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Topical Encyclopedia

Linen, a textile made from the fibers of the flax plant, holds significant importance in biblical times, particularly in the context of bedding and garments. The use of linen is frequently mentioned throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing purity, wealth, and divine service.

Biblical References and Symbolism

Linen is first mentioned in the context of the Tabernacle, where it was used extensively. Exodus 26:1 describes the construction of the Tabernacle: "You are to make the tabernacle with ten curtains of finely twisted linen, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully worked into them." This use of linen underscores its association with holiness and the sacred.

In the context of bedding, linen was a material of choice for its quality and comfort. Proverbs 31:22 highlights the virtuous woman who "makes coverings for her bed; her clothing is fine linen and purple." This passage reflects the value placed on linen as a symbol of diligence and prosperity within the household.

Linen's association with purity is further emphasized in the priestly garments. In Leviticus 16:4, the high priest is instructed to wear a "sacred linen tunic" during the Day of Atonement, signifying the need for purity when approaching God. This connection between linen and purity extends to the New Testament, where Revelation 19:8 describes the bride of Christ as being "given fine linen to wear, bright and pure."

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Israel, linen was a luxury item, often imported from Egypt, known for its high-quality flax. The production of linen was labor-intensive, involving the harvesting, retting, and spinning of flax fibers. This process resulted in a fabric that was both durable and breathable, making it ideal for the hot climate of the Near East.

The use of linen in bedding would have been a mark of wealth and status. In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, found in Luke 16:19, the rich man is described as being "dressed in purple and fine linen," indicating his affluent lifestyle. This portrayal aligns with the broader biblical narrative that associates linen with prosperity and divine favor.

Theological Implications

The use of linen in biblical texts often carries theological implications, particularly in its representation of righteousness and sanctity. The frequent mention of linen in the context of priestly garments and sacred spaces underscores its role as a symbol of the divine-human relationship. Linen's purity and quality serve as a metaphor for the spiritual cleanliness required of God's people.

Moreover, the depiction of linen in eschatological visions, such as in Revelation, points to its enduring significance as a symbol of the redeemed community's purity and readiness for the Lamb's wedding feast. This imagery reinforces the call for believers to live lives marked by holiness and devotion.

In summary, linen, particularly in the form of bedding, is a multifaceted symbol within the biblical narrative. Its use in sacred and domestic contexts highlights themes of purity, prosperity, and divine service, reflecting the broader theological motifs of the Scriptures.

Nave's Topical Index

Proverbs 7:16
I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

The Thirty Years' War. AD 1618-1650.
... to an end; and to understand the difference that was made by the ... houses were usually
of clay, but were plentifully furnished with linen, bedding, pewter, and ...
/.../winkworth/christian singers of germany/chapter viii the thirty years.htm

Athor, the Golden
... He displayed the linen-wrapped roll, the covering split ... wooden wedges into the holes
already made, or pouring ... rending another slab from its bedding with loud ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter vii athor the golden.htm

Under Ban of the Ritual
... yellow, over it a kamis of white linen, a kerchief ... The boatman ducked his head
respectfully and made toward the ... He effected a landing at a bedding of masonry ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter ii under ban of.htm

Appendix xvii. The Ordinances and Law of the Sabbath as Laid Down ...
... solutions ordinarily made in water should be made in vinegar ... The bedding straw must
not be turned with hand, but with ... A press in which linen is smoothed may be ...
/.../the life and times of jesus the messiah/appendix xvii the ordinances and.htm

Acts of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian.
... face, he prayed, and brought out the linen cloth, and ... throws them, as if they were
some bedding, into the ... foundation of the world; who hast made Thyself known ...
/.../acts of the holy apostle.htm

The Life of Mr. George Wishart.
... and fasting every fourth day; his lodging, bedding, and such ... silent a little while,
till I have made a short ... him, and arraying him in a black linen coat, they ...
/.../howie/biographia scoticana scots worthies/the life of mr george.htm

Commerce
... 1:16), who imported horses and linen yarn, has ... rented, a somewhat higher charge might
be made, if the ... to sell it: but wearing apparel, bedding, the ploughshare ...
/.../edersheim/sketches of jewish social life/chapter 12 commerce.htm

Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ...
... given various privileges, was crushed down by being obliged to continue in what
was often an unprofitable occupation; the latter was made responsible for the ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period i the imperial state.htm

Memoir of John Bunyan
... Yet, eventually that swine-herd was clothed in purple and fine linen, and, under
the ... he swore and cursed at that most fearful rate that it made her tremble to ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/memoir of john bunyan.htm