Topical Bible: Kings: Officers of Master of the Wardrobe

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the ancient kingdoms of Israel and Judah, the role of the "Master of the Wardrobe" was a significant position within the royal court. This officer was responsible for managing the clothing and garments of the king and possibly other members of the royal family. The position highlights the importance of attire in the royal court, reflecting status, wealth, and the splendor of the monarchy.

Biblical References:

The role of the Master of the Wardrobe is mentioned in the context of the reign of King Josiah of Judah. In 2 Kings 22:14, the officer is identified as part of a delegation sent by King Josiah to consult the prophetess Huldah. The Berean Standard Bible states: "So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District."

This passage indicates that the keeper of the wardrobe, Shallum, was a person of some standing, as his wife was consulted for her prophetic insight. The mention of the "Second District" suggests that the keeper of the wardrobe had a residence in a notable area of Jerusalem, further emphasizing the importance of his role.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In the ancient Near East, clothing was not merely functional but also a symbol of authority and identity. The garments of a king were often elaborate, made from fine materials, and adorned with precious stones and embroidery. The Master of the Wardrobe would have been responsible for maintaining these garments, ensuring they were in pristine condition for public appearances and ceremonies.

The position required a person of trust and reliability, as the officer would have had access to the king's private chambers and personal effects. The role may have also included overseeing the production and acquisition of new garments, managing a team of tailors and craftsmen, and possibly even advising on matters of fashion and presentation.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the role of the Master of the Wardrobe can be seen as a reflection of the order and structure within God's ordained monarchy. The attention to detail in the king's attire underscores the biblical theme of God's concern for beauty and order, as seen in the detailed descriptions of the priestly garments in Exodus 28.

Moreover, the involvement of the keeper of the wardrobe in the delegation to Huldah highlights the interconnectedness of various roles within the kingdom, all contributing to the fulfillment of God's purposes. The consultation with Huldah, a prophetess, also emphasizes the importance of seeking divine guidance in matters of state, a principle that resonates throughout the biblical narrative.

In summary, the Master of the Wardrobe was a key figure in the royal court, entrusted with the care and presentation of the king's garments. This role, while practical, also carried symbolic weight, reflecting the majesty and divine order of the monarchy in ancient Israel and Judah.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 22:14
So Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam, and Achbor, and Shaphan, and Asahiah, went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelled in Jerusalem in the college;) and they communed with her.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Chronicles 34:22
And Hilkiah, and they that the king had appointed, went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvath, the son of Hasrah, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelled in Jerusalem in the college:) and they spoke to her to that effect.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Chaldaean Civilization
... The administrative officers and the staff who had charge ... The kings wore the same
costume as their subjects ... gaining a direct influence over their master and his ...
/.../chapter iiichaldaean civilization.htm

The Political Constitution of Egypt
... an allusion to these ruined palaces: "The gods [kings] who were ... nay, not a man, sire
my master; do not ... the departmental staff of the public officers, and might ...
/.../chapter ithe political constitution of.htm

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... whose individuality was eclipsed by that of their master, their skill ... 2 Kings
21:16 ... Cyaxares, therefore, invited Madyes and his officers to a banquet, and after ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm

The Iranian Conquest
... dough, but the woman revealed the intended crime to her master, who at ... Lenormant
ascribed an issue of coins without inscriptions to the kings Ardys, Sadyattes ...
/.../chapter ithe iranian conquest.htm