Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, garments, often referred to as "raiment," hold significant symbolic and practical importance. They are mentioned throughout the Scriptures, serving as indicators of status, identity, and spiritual truths.Old Testament References In the Old Testament, garments are frequently associated with identity and status. For instance, Joseph's "robe of many colors" (Genesis 37:3) symbolizes his father's favoritism and becomes a source of envy among his brothers. Garments also denote priestly roles, as seen in the detailed descriptions of the priestly attire in Exodus 28. These garments are not only functional but also symbolic of holiness and service to God. The concept of garments extends to the idea of divine provision and care. In Deuteronomy 8:4 , Moses reminds the Israelites that during their 40 years in the wilderness, "Your clothing did not wear out and your feet did not swell." This miraculous preservation of raiment underscores God's sustenance and faithfulness. New Testament References In the New Testament, garments continue to carry deep symbolic meaning. Jesus' teachings often use clothing as a metaphor for spiritual truths. In Matthew 6:28-29 , Jesus points to the lilies of the field, stating, "Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his glory was adorned like one of these." Here, garments symbolize God's provision and the futility of human anxiety over material needs. The New Testament also emphasizes the spiritual significance of garments in the context of righteousness and salvation. In Revelation 19:8 , the fine linen worn by the bride of Christ is described as "the righteous acts of the saints." This imagery highlights the transformation and purity bestowed upon believers through Christ. Symbolism and Spiritual Lessons Garments in the Bible often symbolize spiritual states and transformations. Isaiah 61:10 beautifully captures this, stating, "I will rejoice greatly in the LORD; my soul will exult in my God. For He has clothed me with garments of salvation and wrapped me in a robe of righteousness." This passage reflects the joy and gratitude of being clothed in divine righteousness, a theme echoed in the New Testament. The act of changing garments can also signify a change in status or condition. In Zechariah 3:4 , the high priest Joshua is told, "See, I have removed your iniquity, and I will clothe you with splendid robes." This act symbolizes the removal of sin and the bestowal of divine grace. Practical and Cultural Aspects Beyond their symbolic meanings, garments in biblical times were practical necessities, often reflecting the culture and customs of the period. They were made from materials such as wool, linen, and leather, and their styles varied according to social status and occupation. The care and maintenance of garments were important aspects of daily life, as seen in various laws and instructions regarding cleanliness and purity (Leviticus 13:47-59). In summary, garments, or raiment, in the Bible are rich with meaning, serving as symbols of identity, divine provision, righteousness, and transformation. They reflect both the cultural context of the biblical narrative and the deeper spiritual truths that transcend time. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 28:20And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, Torrey's Topical Textbook Deuteronomy 8:4 Library Holy Raiment of One's Own Weaving. The King and his Armies. Samson's Wedding Feast Of Sisinnius Bishop of the Novatians. His Readiness at Repartee. Matt. xxii. 1-14. After Eutropius Having Been Found Outside the Church had Been ... How the Steps in the Passion of the Saviour were Predetermined in ... On Dress. Change not Always Improvement. The Return of Christ to the Earth Itself. Resources What was the significance of the priestly garments? | GotQuestions.orgWhat did it mean to tear one's clothes in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Is there any significance to colors in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Garments: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Garments of Israel Preserved for Forty Years Garments of the Poor used As a Covering by Night Garments of the Poor: Not to be Retained in Pledge Garments of the Poor: Provided Specially by God Garments of the Rich of the Finest Materials Garments of the Rich: Embroidered Garments of the Rich: Gorgeous Garments of the Rich: Multiplied and Heaped Up Garments of the Rich: Often Moth-Eaten Garments of the Rich: Perfumed Garments of the Sexes, not to be Interchanged Garments of Those Slain With a Sword not Used Garments were often Fringed and Bordered Garments: (Rolled in Blood) Victory Garments: (Washed in Wine) Abundance Garments: (White) Righteousness Garments: Cleansed by Water from Ceremonial Uncleanness Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: Blue Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: Different Colours Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: Purple Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: Scarlet Garments: Colours of, Mentioned: White Garments: Girt up During Employment Garments: Given As a Token of Covenants Garments: Grew Old and Wore Out Garments: Hyke or Upper Garment Garments: Liable to Plague and Leprosy Garments: Materials Used for Camel's Hair Garments: Materials Used for Linen Garments: Materials Used for Sackcloth Garments: Materials Used for Silk Garments: Materials Used for Skins Garments: Materials Used for Wool Garments: Not to be Made of Mixed Materials Garments: Often Rent in Affliction Garments: Scribes and Pharisees Condemned for Making Broad the Borders Garments: Worn Long and Flowing Related Terms |
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