Topical Encyclopedia Silk, a luxurious and highly valued fabric, is mentioned in the Bible as a material used for clothing and adornment. Its presence in biblical texts highlights the wealth and status associated with those who wore it. The production of silk, originating from the silkworm, was a closely guarded secret in ancient times, primarily associated with the Far East, particularly China. The trade routes, such as the Silk Road, facilitated the movement of this precious fabric to the Near East, including the regions mentioned in the Bible.In the Scriptures, silk is often associated with opulence and splendor. For instance, in Ezekiel 16:10, the Lord describes His lavish care for Jerusalem, saying, "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." This passage illustrates the use of silk as a symbol of divine favor and blessing, signifying the beauty and richness bestowed upon the city. The use of silk in biblical times was not limited to clothing but extended to other forms of adornment and decoration. In Revelation 18:12, silk is listed among the luxurious goods lamented over in the fall of Babylon: "cargo of gold, silver, precious stones, and pearls; of fine linen, purple, silk, and scarlet cloth; of all kinds of citron wood, and articles of every kind made of ivory, precious wood, bronze, iron, and marble." This enumeration underscores the high value placed on silk, equating it with other precious materials and highlighting its role in the wealth and commerce of great cities. Silk's association with wealth and status is further emphasized in the context of the virtuous woman described in Proverbs 31. In Proverbs 31:22, it is noted, "She makes coverings for her bed; her clothing is fine linen and purple." While silk is not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the reference to fine linen and purple, both costly and luxurious materials, suggests a similar level of affluence and industriousness that could include silk. The biblical references to silk, while few, provide insight into the cultural and economic significance of this fabric in ancient times. Silk's rarity and beauty made it a fitting symbol of prosperity and divine blessing, reflecting the broader biblical themes of God's provision and the splendor of His creation. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 31:22She makes herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 16:10,13 Library Whether the Adornment of Women is Devoid of Mortal Sin? On Dress The World, the Flesh, and the Devil Hebrews xi. 37, 38 The Empress Eudoxia from the Story of Christian Womanhood in Old ... Concerning Salutations and Recreations, &C. The Life and Death of Mr. Badman, Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ... Resources What is a prayer shawl? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Damascus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of a kippah / yarmulke? | GotQuestions.org Silk: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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