Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, travel was a common aspect of life, whether for trade, pilgrimage, or other purposes. Those who traveled on foot were typically attired in a manner that was both practical and reflective of their social status and the cultural norms of the time.General Attire: Travelers in biblical times often wore simple, durable clothing suitable for long journeys. The basic garment was the tunic, a knee-length or longer piece of clothing made from wool or linen. This garment was worn by both men and women, though the styles and lengths varied. The tunic was often girded with a belt or sash, which allowed for greater ease of movement and could be used to carry small items. Outer Garments: Over the tunic, travelers would wear a cloak or mantle, which provided additional warmth and protection from the elements. This outer garment could also serve as a blanket at night. In Exodus 22:26-27, the importance of the cloak is highlighted: "If you take your neighbor’s cloak as collateral, return it to him by sunset, because his cloak is the only covering he has for his body. What else will he sleep in?" Footwear: Sandals were the typical footwear for travelers, made from leather or other durable materials. They were designed to protect the feet from rough terrain while allowing for ventilation in the hot climate. In Mark 6:9, Jesus instructs His disciples, "Wear sandals, but not an extra tunic." Head Coverings: To protect against the sun, travelers often wore head coverings. These could be simple cloths or more elaborate turbans, depending on the individual's status and resources. The head covering also served as a sign of modesty and respect. Accessories: Travelers might carry a staff, which provided support and could be used for defense against wild animals or thieves. In Matthew 10:10, Jesus advises His disciples, "Take no bag for the road, or second tunic, or sandals, or staff; for the worker is worthy of his provisions." Cultural and Social Considerations: The attire of travelers could also reflect their social status or occupation. For instance, prophets might wear distinctive garments, such as the hairy cloak of Elijah (2 Kings 1:8). Wealthier individuals might have more elaborate clothing, while the poor would have simpler attire. Symbolic Significance: Clothing in the Bible often carries symbolic meaning. For example, the act of girding one's loins, as mentioned in 1 Peter 1:13, "Therefore prepare your minds for action, be sober-minded, and set your hope fully on the grace to be given you at the revelation of Jesus Christ," implies readiness and preparedness for action, a necessary mindset for travelers. In summary, the attire of travelers on foot in biblical times was practical, modest, and often symbolic, reflecting the cultural and social norms of the period. Torrey's Topical Textbook Exodus 12:11And thus shall you eat it; with your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and you shall eat it in haste: it is the LORD's passover. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Lovely to a Poet or an Artist's Eye is the Unevenly-Built and ... The Adventures of Saint George of England. The City of Benares. The Northern Mountains Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusSubtopics Travellers for Security often Left the Highways Travellers of Distinction: Before Setting out Gave Employment to Their Servants Travellers of Distinction: Frequently Extorted Provisions by the Way Travellers of Distinction: Generally Attended by Running Footmen Travellers of Distinction: Generally Performed Their Journey in Great State Travellers of Distinction: Often Preceded by Heralds to Have the Roads Prepared Travellers of Distinction: Rode in Chariots Travellers of Distinction: Rode on Asses, Camels Travellers were Frequently Asked Whence They Came and Whither They Went Travellers: After a Long Journey, Described Travellers: Called Way-Faring Men Travellers: Carried With Them: Presents for Those Who Entertained Them Travellers: Carried With Them: Provender for Their Beasts of Burden Travellers: Carried With Them: Provisions for the Way Travellers: Carried With Them: Skins Filled With Water, Wine Travellers: Ceasing of, Threatened As a Calamity Travellers: Estimated the Length of Their Journey by the Number of Days Travellers: Friends of Frequently Commended Them to Protection of God Travellers: Friends of Frequently Took Leave of Them With Sorrow Travellers: Friends of Often Sent Them Away With Music Travellers: Friends of Often Supplied Them With Provision Travellers: Friends of Sometimes Accompanied Them a Short Way Travellers: Generally Commenced Their Journey Early in the Morning Travellers: Generally Halted at Wells or Streams Travellers: Generally Rested at Noon Travellers: Generally Treated With Great Hospitality Travellers: Often Collected Together and Formed Caravans Travellers: Often Engaged Persons Acquainted With the Country As Guides Travellers: Often Travelled on Foot Travellers: On Errands Requiring Despatch: Saluted No Man by the Way Travellers: On Errands Requiring Despatch: Went With Great Speed Travellers: On Foot, How Attired Travellers: Preparations Made By, Alluded To Travellers: Protected by Those Who Entertained Them Travellers: Strangers Civil To Travellers: Tesserae Hospitales or Pledges of Hospitality, Alluded To Travellers: The Caravanserai or Public Inn for Noticed Travellers: The Jews Prohibited from Taking Long Journeys on the Sabbath Related Terms |