Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionHair, as the natural covering of the head, holds significant symbolic and practical importance in the biblical narrative. It is mentioned in various contexts throughout Scripture, serving as a symbol of beauty, strength, and even consecration. The Bible provides insights into the cultural and spiritual significance of hair, reflecting the values and beliefs of the times. Symbol of Beauty and Glory In biblical times, hair was often regarded as a symbol of beauty and glory, particularly for women. The Apostle Paul, in his first letter to the Corinthians, emphasizes the importance of hair as a covering, stating, "But if a woman has long hair, it is her glory. For long hair is given to her as a covering" (1 Corinthians 11:15). This passage highlights the cultural perception of long hair as a natural adornment and a sign of femininity. Strength and Vow of Consecration Hair also symbolizes strength and dedication to God, as seen in the Nazarite vow. The Nazarites, individuals consecrated to God, were required to abstain from cutting their hair during the period of their vow. Samson, one of the most famous Nazarites, derived his strength from his uncut hair. Judges 16:17 recounts Samson's confession to Delilah: "No razor has ever come upon my head, because I have been a Nazarite 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 narrative underscores the connection between hair and divine empowerment. Sign of Humility and Mourning Conversely, the shaving or cutting of hair is often associated with humility, mourning, or repentance. In the book of Job, after receiving devastating news, Job expresses his grief by shaving his head: "Then Job stood up, tore his robe, and shaved his head. He fell to the ground and worshiped" (Job 1:20). Similarly, the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah describe the shaving of the head as a sign of lamentation and penitence (Isaiah 22:12, Jeremiah 7:29). Cultural Practices and Regulations The Bible also addresses cultural practices and regulations concerning hair. In Leviticus, the Israelites are instructed not to cut the hair at the sides of their heads or clip off the edges of their beards (Leviticus 19:27). This commandment reflects the distinct identity and holiness required of God's people, setting them apart from surrounding nations. Divine Knowledge and Care The Scriptures affirm God's intimate knowledge and care for His creation, extending even to the hairs on one's head. Jesus reassures His disciples of their value to God, saying, "Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows" (Luke 12:7). This statement emphasizes God's meticulous attention to detail and His deep concern for each individual. Conclusion Throughout the Bible, hair serves as a multifaceted symbol, representing beauty, strength, consecration, humility, and divine care. Its treatment and significance in various contexts reflect the cultural and spiritual values of the biblical world, offering insights into the relationship between humanity and the divine. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 68:21But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of such an one as goes on still in his trespasses. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Womanhood Self-Evident, and not to be Concealed by Just Leaving ... Against Embellishing the Body. Whether the Body of Man was Given an Apt Disposition? On Clothes. A Compendious view of the Christian Life. The Great Furnace for a Great Soul 1 Cor. xi. 2 The Great Teacher "He Has Trusted Me," Said the Cardinal, -- "I have Found Him... The Scaffolding Left in the Body Resources What is holy magic hair? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about dyeing hair? | GotQuestions.org Did Jesus have long hair? | GotQuestions.org Hair: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Hair of Nazarites: Not to be Cut or Shorn During Their Vow The Hair of Nazarites: Shorn After Completion of Vow The Hair of the Healed Leper to be Shorn The Hair of Women: Neglected in Grief The Hair of Women: Plaited and Broidered The Hair of Women: Well Set and Ornamented The Hair of Women: Worn Long for a Covering The Hair: Black, Particularly Esteemed The Hair: Colour of, Changed by Leprosy The Hair: Cut off in Affliction The Hair: Judgments Expressed by Sending Baldness For The Hair: Judgments Expressed by Shaving The Hair: Man Cannot Even Change the Colour Or The Hair: Men Condemned for Wearing Long The Hair: Often Expensively Anointed The Hair: Plucked out in Extreme Grief The Hair: Plucking out of, a Reproach The Hair: Sometimes Worn Long by Men The Hair: The Natural Covering of the Head The Hair: White or Gray with Righteousness, a Crown of Glory The Hair: White or Gray: A Token of Age The Hair: White or Gray: A Token of Weakness and Decay The Hair: White or Gray: An Emblem of Wisdom The Hair: White or Gray: To be Reverenced Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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