In biblical times, the concept of beds and their accoutrements, such as pillows, is mentioned in various contexts, reflecting both the cultural practices and the spiritual symbolism of the era. Beds in the ancient Near East were often simple structures, but the addition of pillows or cushions could indicate a level of comfort or luxury.

Biblical References:

1. Ezekiel 13:18 · The prophet Ezekiel condemns the false prophetesses of Israel, who sew magic charms on their wrists and make veils of various lengths for their heads. In this context, the mention of "pillows" (or "cushions" in some translations) is symbolic of deceit and false security. The Berean Standard Bible translates this passage as: "This is what the Lord GOD says: Woe to the women who sew magic bands on all their wrists and make veils of every size for their heads to ensnare souls. Will you ensnare the souls of My people but preserve your own?"

2. Amos 6:4 · The prophet Amos speaks against the complacency and indulgence of the Israelites, who lie on beds of ivory and stretch out on their couches. While pillows are not explicitly mentioned, the luxurious nature of their resting places implies the use of comfortable accessories. The BSB states: "You lie on beds inlaid with ivory and lounge on your couches. You dine on choice lambs and fattened calves."

Cultural Context:

In ancient Israel, beds were typically low to the ground and could be simple mats or more elaborate wooden frames. The use of pillows or cushions would have been a sign of wealth and comfort, as they were not common among the poorer classes. Pillows could be made from various materials, including wool, leather, or cloth stuffed with feathers or other soft materials.

Spiritual Symbolism:

The use of pillows in the Bible often carries a deeper spiritual meaning. In Ezekiel, the pillows symbolize false security and the deceptive practices of those who lead others astray. This serves as a warning against complacency and the dangers of relying on false comforts rather than seeking true security in God.

Historical Insights:

Archaeological findings from the ancient Near East provide evidence of beds and pillows used during biblical times. These artifacts reveal that while the common people might have used simple mats, the wealthier individuals had access to more luxurious bedding, including pillows. This distinction is reflected in the biblical narrative, where the use of pillows often denotes a lifestyle of ease and indulgence.

Moral and Ethical Implications:

From a moral perspective, the biblical references to beds and pillows serve as a reminder of the dangers of excess and the importance of humility. The prophets' critiques of those who indulge in luxury at the expense of righteousness highlight the ethical call to live a life of simplicity and devotion to God.

In summary, the mention of beds supplied with pillows in the Bible provides insight into the cultural practices of the time, while also offering a rich tapestry of spiritual and moral lessons. Through these references, believers are encouraged to seek true rest and security in their faith, rather than in the fleeting comforts of the world.1 Samuel 19:13
And Michal took an image, and laid it in the bed, and put a pillow of goats' hair for his bolster, and covered it with a cloth.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 26:7
So David and Abishai came to the people by night: and, behold, Saul lay sleeping within the trench, and his spear stuck in the ground at his bolster: but Abner and the people lay round about him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Greatness of the Soul,
... help me to make upon it, will awaken you, rouse you off your beds of ease ... into which
the virgins got oil, and out of which their lamps were supplied by the same ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the greatness of the soul.htm

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