Topical Bible: The Goat: The Hair of Made Into Pillows

◄ The Goat: The Hair of Made Into Pillows ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

In biblical times, goats were highly valued for their various contributions to daily life, including their milk, meat, and hair. The hair of goats, particularly from the species known as the "black goat," was a significant resource in the ancient Near East. This hair was often spun into yarn and woven into fabric, which was then used for various purposes, including the making of tents, garments, and other household items. One of the lesser-known uses of goat hair was in the creation of pillows.

Biblical References and Cultural Context

While the Bible does not explicitly mention the use of goat hair for pillows, it does provide insight into the broader use of goat hair in ancient Israelite society. In Exodus 35:26, the women who were skilled in spinning are described as spinning goat hair for the construction of the Tabernacle: "And all the women whose hearts stirred them to action and who were skilled spun the goat hair." This passage highlights the importance of goat hair as a material for crafting essential items.

The use of goat hair for pillows can be inferred from the general practice of utilizing available materials for comfort and utility. In a society where resources were often scarce, the Israelites would have made use of every part of an animal. Goat hair, being durable and relatively easy to work with, would have been a practical choice for stuffing pillows or creating pillow covers.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

Goats hold a complex place in biblical symbolism. They are often associated with sin and separation from God, as seen in the parable of the sheep and the goats in Matthew 25:32-33: "All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on His right and the goats on His left." Despite this negative connotation, the practical use of goat hair for everyday items like pillows underscores the biblical theme of redemption and the transformation of what is considered unclean into something useful and valuable.

Practical Applications in Ancient Times

In the harsh climate of the ancient Near East, comfort was a luxury. Pillows made from goat hair would have provided a measure of comfort and rest, reflecting the biblical principle of God’s provision for His people. The use of goat hair for such purposes demonstrates the resourcefulness of the Israelites and their ability to adapt to their environment using the resources God provided.

The crafting of pillows from goat hair also highlights the role of women in ancient Israelite society. As noted in Exodus 35:26, women were the primary artisans responsible for spinning and weaving, contributing significantly to the household economy and the community's well-being.

Conclusion

The use of goat hair for making pillows, while not explicitly detailed in the Bible, is consistent with the broader cultural practices of the time. It reflects the resourcefulness and adaptability of the Israelites, as well as the biblical themes of provision and redemption. Through the practical use of goat hair, the ancient Israelites were able to create comfort and utility from the resources available to them, demonstrating the providence and care of God in their daily lives.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Samuel 19:13
And Michal took an image, and laid it in the bed, and put a pillow of goats' hair for his bolster, and covered it with a cloth.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Letter cviii. To Eustochium.
... exchange my soft linen and costly silks for rough goat's hair. ... I have made my letter
longer than it should be ... She fell into a most serious illness and thus ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter cviii to eustochium.htm