Tressing, in the context of biblical references, pertains to the act of braiding or arranging hair, often associated with adornment and personal appearance. The practice of tressing is mentioned in the Bible, primarily in the context of modesty and the inner qualities of a person, rather than external appearances.

Biblical References:

1. 1 Timothy 2:9 : "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." In this passage, the Apostle Paul addresses the early Christian community, emphasizing the importance of modesty and self-control over outward adornment. The mention of "braided hair" or tressing is not a prohibition against styling hair but rather a caution against prioritizing external beauty over inner virtues.

2. 1 Peter 3:3-4 : "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment such as braided hair or gold jewelry or fine clothes, but from the inner disposition of your heart, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight." Here, Peter echoes a similar sentiment to Paul, urging believers to focus on the inner qualities that reflect a Christ-like character. The reference to braided hair serves as a metaphor for the broader concept of external versus internal beauty.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient Near Eastern and Greco-Roman cultures, elaborate hairstyles and the use of jewelry were common among women of status and wealth. Tressing, or the intricate braiding of hair, was often a symbol of social standing and could be an expression of personal wealth and attention to fashion. The biblical admonitions regarding tressing are not blanket condemnations of hair styling but are set within a broader discourse on humility, modesty, and the prioritization of spiritual over material values.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the biblical references to tressing highlight the Christian call to cultivate inner virtues that reflect one's faith and relationship with God. The emphasis on modesty and the inner disposition aligns with the broader biblical theme of the heart's condition being of greater importance than outward appearances. This teaching encourages believers to seek beauty that is "precious in God’s sight," characterized by a gentle and quiet spirit.

Practical Application:

In contemporary Christian practice, the principles derived from these passages encourage individuals to consider their motivations and priorities in personal grooming and adornment. While cultural norms regarding fashion and hairstyles may vary, the underlying biblical principle remains relevant: the cultivation of inner beauty and character should take precedence over external appearances. This perspective invites believers to reflect on how their personal presentation aligns with their values and witness as followers of Christ.Tressing (1 Occurrence)

1 Peter 3:3
whose adorning let it not be that outward one of tressing of hair, and wearing gold, or putting on apparel;
(DBY)

Tressing (1 Occurrence)
...Tressing (1 Occurrence). 1 Peter 3:3 whose adorning let it not be that outward one
of tressing of hair, and wearing gold, or putting on apparel; (DBY). ...
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Tresses (1 Occurrence)

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Trial (45 Occurrences)

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