In biblical times, girdles were essential garments, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. A girdle, often a belt or sash, was typically worn around the waist and was used to secure clothing, carry tools, or hold money. The use of girdles for holding money is mentioned in several biblical passages, highlighting their importance in daily life and commerce.

Function and Design

Girdles were made from various materials, including leather, linen, or wool, and were often intricately designed. They could be simple or ornate, depending on the wearer's status and wealth. The girdle's primary function was to secure the tunic, allowing for ease of movement. However, it also served as a practical means of carrying personal items, including money. The girdle often had pockets or pouches sewn into it, or it could be tied in such a way to create a secure space for coins and other small valuables.

Biblical References

The Bible provides several references to girdles used for holding money, illustrating their role in the economic and social life of ancient Israel. In the New Testament, Jesus instructs His disciples in Matthew 10:9 , "Do not get any gold or silver or copper to take with you in your belts." This passage indicates that girdles were commonly used to carry money, as the disciples were advised not to take any with them on their mission.

Similarly, in Mark 6:8 , Jesus commands the apostles, "Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts." This further emphasizes the girdle's function as a money holder, as it was customary for travelers to carry their funds securely within their belts.

Cultural and Symbolic Significance

Girdles also held cultural and symbolic significance in biblical times. They were often associated with readiness and preparedness. In Ephesians 6:14 , the Apostle Paul uses the imagery of a girdle to describe spiritual readiness: "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist." Here, the girdle symbolizes truth and the preparedness required for spiritual warfare.

In the Old Testament, girdles were sometimes associated with strength and power. For instance, in Job 12:18 , it is written, "He loosens the bonds placed by kings and fastens a belt around their waists." This passage suggests that girdles were also seen as symbols of authority and control.

Economic Implications

The use of girdles for holding money reflects the economic practices of the time. In a society where coins were the primary medium of exchange, having a secure and accessible way to carry money was essential. The girdle provided a practical solution, allowing individuals to keep their money close at hand while traveling or conducting business.

The biblical references to girdles and money also highlight the itinerant lifestyle of Jesus and His disciples, who relied on the hospitality of others and divine provision rather than material wealth. This reliance on faith rather than financial security is a recurring theme in the teachings of Jesus, as seen in His instructions to the disciples regarding their journeys.

In summary, girdles used for holding money were an integral part of daily life in biblical times, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. They are mentioned in various biblical passages, illustrating their role in the economic, social, and spiritual aspects of ancient Israelite culture.Matthew 10:9
Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Mark 6:8
And commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no money, no bread, no money in their purse:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

A Call to Prayer and Testimony
... watch reports itself, and thus never holding our peace ... The Lord girdles the globe
with intercessions, by his ... holy Word, which you have never used; perhaps you ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 37 1891/a call to prayer and.htm

Introductory Notice Respecting Tauler's Life and Times
... persons, would seem to have been used among themselves ... the Church to laymen, or borrowed
money at high ... shirts often stained with blood, and holding scourges in ...
/.../introductory notice respecting taulers life.htm

Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ...
... was present, that if thy firmness should ask him for any money, he should ... Emperor,
that we who are persons consecrated to the ministry, and holding the faith ...
/.../ayer/a source book for ancient church history/period i the imperial state.htm

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