Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, hair is often mentioned as a significant aspect of a person's appearance and identity, symbolizing various spiritual and cultural meanings. The Bible references hair in numerous passages, highlighting its importance in both Old and New Testament narratives.Old Testament References 1. Symbol of Strength and Vow: One of the most notable references to hair in the Old Testament is the account of Samson. In Judges 16:17, Samson reveals to Delilah that his strength is tied to his uncut hair, a symbol of his Nazirite vow: "No razor has ever come upon my head, for I have been a Nazirite to God from my mother’s womb. If I am shaved, my strength will leave me, and I will become as weak as any other man." This passage underscores the spiritual significance of hair as a sign of dedication to God. 2. Adornment and Beauty: Hair is also associated with beauty and adornment. In the Song of Solomon, the beloved's hair is described in poetic terms, emphasizing its beauty and allure: "Your hair is like a flock of goats streaming down Mount Gilead" (Song of Solomon 4:1). This imagery reflects the cultural appreciation of hair as an element of physical attractiveness. 3. Mourning and Humility: In times of mourning or repentance, the Israelites would often shave their heads or cut their hair as a sign of humility and sorrow. For example, in Isaiah 22:12, the Lord calls for weeping and mourning, baldness and wearing sackcloth, indicating a cultural practice of expressing grief through the alteration of one's hair. New Testament References 1. Covering and Authority: In the New Testament, hair is discussed in the context of head coverings and authority. In 1 Corinthians 11:14-15, Paul writes, "Does not nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him, but if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For long hair is given to her as a covering." This passage reflects the cultural norms of the time regarding gender roles and the symbolism of hair as a covering. 2. Adornment and Modesty: The New Testament also addresses the issue of adornment and modesty concerning hair. In 1 Peter 3:3-4, women are advised, "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." This instruction emphasizes the value of inner beauty over external appearance. 3. Vows and Dedication: Similar to the Old Testament, the New Testament mentions vows involving hair. In Acts 18:18, Paul is described as having his hair cut off because of a vow he had taken, indicating the continued practice of using hair as a symbol of religious commitment. Throughout the Bible, hair serves as a multifaceted symbol, representing strength, beauty, humility, authority, and spiritual dedication. Its treatment and significance vary across different contexts, reflecting the cultural and religious values of the biblical world. Torrey's Topical Textbook Judges 16:22However, the hair of his head began to grow again after he was shaven. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 40:12 Library Having Mentioned the Baptist, St. ... Of the Concord Between Matthew, Mark, and John in their Notices of ... The World, Created by God, Still Cherished and Protected by Him. ... Of the Excellence of the Perfect Man who is Figuratively Spoken of ... Jesus Before Caiphas. Whether There Can be any Suitable Cause for the Sacraments of the ... Psalm CXLI. The Catholic Apostolic Church (Called Irvingites. ) Thanksgiving to God for Deliverance from the Evils Expected Owing ... The Abiding Gift and Its Transitory Accompaniments Resources What does Genesis 3:15 mean that “he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel”? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean that Jesus had nowhere to lay His head? | GotQuestions.org What does INRI stand for? What was written on the sign nailed to the cross above Jesus' head? | GotQuestions.org Head: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Head in Grief: Sprinkled With Dust Head in Grief: The Hands Placed On Head of Criminals often Cut off Head of Enemies Slain in War, often Cut off Head of the Chief City of a Kingdom Head of the Leper Always Uncovered Head of Women Generally Covered in Public Head: (Anointed) of Joy and Prosperity Head: (Covered) of Defence and Protection Head: (Lifted Up) of Exaltation Head: (Lifted Up) of Joy and Confidence Head: (Made Bald) of Heavy Judgments Head: All the Other Members Necessary To Head: Bowed Down in Worshipping God Head: Bowed Down: As a Token of Respect Head: Derision Expressed by Shaking Head: Liable to Internal Disease Head: Nazarites Forbidden to Shave Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Crown Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Face Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Forehead Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Hair Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Scalp Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Skull Head: Parts of Mentioned: The Temples Head: Priests Forbidden to Shave Head: Put for the Whole Person Head: Shaven when Vows Were Taken Head: The Body Supported and Supplied By Head: The Jews Censured for Swearing By Head: The Uppermost and Chief Member of the Body Head: when Hoary With Age to be Respected Related Terms |
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