Topical Bible: Prophets: Wore a Coarse Dress of Hair-Cloth

◄ Prophets: Wore a Coarse Dress of Hair-Cloth ►

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, the attire of prophets often held symbolic significance, reflecting their message and lifestyle. One notable aspect of prophetic attire is the wearing of a coarse dress made of hair-cloth, a garment that signified austerity, repentance, and a life set apart for divine purposes. This type of clothing is frequently associated with the prophets Elijah and John the Baptist, both of whom played pivotal roles in calling the people of Israel back to faithfulness to God.

Elijah the Tishbite

Elijah, one of the most prominent prophets in the Old Testament, is described as wearing a garment of hair and a leather belt around his waist. In 2 Kings 1:8, when King Ahaziah's messengers describe a man they encountered, they say, "He was a hairy man, and he wore a leather belt around his waist." This description immediately identifies the man as Elijah. The coarse garment of hair-cloth worn by Elijah symbolized his role as a prophet who lived outside the norms of society, often in the wilderness, and who called the people to repentance and a return to the covenant with Yahweh.

John the Baptist

In the New Testament, John the Baptist is similarly described as wearing clothing made of camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist. Matthew 3:4 states, "John wore a garment of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey." John's attire and lifestyle were reminiscent of Elijah, and he is often seen as a prophetic figure in the spirit and power of Elijah, preparing the way for the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. His clothing was a visual representation of his message of repentance and his call for the people to prepare for the coming kingdom of God.

Symbolism and Significance

The coarse dress of hair-cloth worn by these prophets was not merely a fashion choice but a deliberate symbol of their prophetic mission. It represented a rejection of worldly comforts and a commitment to a life of simplicity and devotion to God. The garment served as a visual reminder of the call to repentance and the need for spiritual renewal. It also set the prophets apart from the religious and political leaders of their time, who often wore fine clothing and lived in luxury.

The use of hair-cloth garments by prophets underscores the biblical theme of humility and the call to live a life dedicated to God's purposes. It highlights the contrast between the values of God's kingdom and those of the world, emphasizing the need for a heart turned toward God and away from materialism and self-indulgence.

Conclusion

The coarse dress of hair-cloth worn by prophets like Elijah and John the Baptist serves as a powerful symbol of their divine calling and message. It reflects their commitment to a life of simplicity, repentance, and dedication to God's mission, challenging believers to consider their own lives in light of the prophetic call to faithfulness and holiness.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Kings 1:8
And they answered him, He was an hairy man, and girt with a girdle of leather about his loins. And he said, It is Elijah the Tishbite.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Zechariah 13:4
And it shall come to pass in that day, that the prophets shall be ashamed every one of his vision, when he has prophesied; neither shall they wear a rough garment to deceive:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Matthew 3:4
And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leather girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Revelation 11:3
And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and three score days, clothed in sackcloth.
Torrey's Topical Textbook