In the context of biblical times, the term "selvedge" refers to the edge of a woven fabric that is finished in such a way as to prevent unraveling. This term is not directly mentioned in the Bible; however, the concept is relevant to the understanding of ancient textile practices and the construction of garments, which are frequently referenced in Scripture.

Biblical Context and Usage

The concept of selvedge is implicitly understood in the detailed descriptions of priestly garments and the tabernacle's construction, where precision in craftsmanship was paramount. In Exodus 26, the instructions for the construction of the tabernacle include detailed descriptions of curtains and other woven materials. While the term "selvedge" is not explicitly used, the care in crafting these items suggests an understanding of textile techniques that would include the creation of selvedges to ensure durability and integrity.

Exodus 26:1 : "You are to construct the tabernacle itself with ten curtains of finely spun linen, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully worked into them."

The craftsmanship required for these curtains would have necessitated a knowledge of weaving techniques, including the creation of selvedges, to prevent fraying and to maintain the beauty and function of the fabric.

Cultural and Historical Significance

In ancient Israel, textiles were a significant part of daily life and religious practice. The creation of garments, especially those worn by the priests, required skilled artisans who understood the importance of durable and well-finished edges. The selvedge would have been an essential aspect of this craftsmanship, ensuring that garments and other woven items could withstand the rigors of use and maintain their intended appearance.

The selvedge also symbolizes the care and attention to detail that God commanded in the construction of sacred items. This attention to detail reflects the broader biblical theme of holiness and the importance of dedicating one's best efforts to the service of God.

Symbolic Interpretation

From a symbolic perspective, the selvedge can be seen as a metaphor for the boundaries and protections that God establishes for His people. Just as a selvedge prevents a fabric from unraveling, God's laws and commandments provide structure and protection for the community of believers. This metaphor aligns with the biblical emphasis on order, discipline, and the preservation of holiness within the community.

Conclusion

While the term "selvedge" itself does not appear in the biblical text, its concept is integral to understanding the construction and significance of textiles in biblical times. The selvedge represents both the practical and symbolic aspects of biblical teachings, emphasizing the importance of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the protective boundaries established by God.1. (n.) The edge of cloth which is woven in such a manner as to prevent raveling.

2. (n.) The edge plate of a lock, through which the bolt passes.

3. (n.) A layer of clay or decomposed rock along the wall of a vein. See Gouge.

SELVEDGE

sel'-vej (qatsah): The word occurs only in the description of the tabernacle (Exodus 26:4; Exodus 36:11). It has reference to the ten curtains which overhung the boards of the sanctuary. Five of these formed one set and five another. These were "coupled" at the center by 50 loops of blue connected by "clasps" (which see) with 50 others on the opposite side. The "selvedge" (self-edge) is the extremity of the curtain in which the loops were.

Selvedge (2 Occurrences)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. SELVEDGE. ... The "selvedge" (self-edge) is the extremity
of the curtain in which the loops were. Multi-Version Concordance ...
/s/selvedge.htm - 8k

Uttermost (48 Occurrences)
... Exodus 26:4 And thou shalt make loops of blue upon the edge of the one curtain from
the selvedge in the coupling; and likewise shalt thou make in the uttermost ...
/u/uttermost.htm - 23k

Selves (14 Occurrences)

/s/selves.htm - 11k

Sells (14 Occurrences)

/s/sells.htm - 10k

Listing (1 Occurrence)
... at the Stock Exchange. 3. (n.) The selvedge of cloth; list. 4. (n.) The
sapwood cut from the edge of a board. 5. (n.) The throwing ...
/l/listing.htm - 7k

List (17 Occurrences)
... 9. (n.) A strip forming the woven border or selvedge of cloth, particularly of
broadcloth, and serving to strengthen it; hence, a strip of cloth; a fillet. 10. ...
/l/list.htm - 14k

Extremity (46 Occurrences)
... Exodus 36:11 And he made loops of blue on the edge of one curtain from the selvedge
in the coupling: likewise he made in the extremity of another curtain, in ...
/e/extremity.htm - 22k

Selvedge: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus