The title "Keeper of the Wardrobe" appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the context of the royal court of Judah. This position was one of responsibility and trust, as it involved the care and management of the royal garments, which were significant both in their material value and symbolic importance.

Biblical References:

1. 2 Kings 22:14 : "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. And they spoke with her."

2. 2 Chronicles 34:22 : "So Hilkiah and those the king had sent went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum son of Tokhath, the son of Hasrah, the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District. And they spoke with her about this."

In these passages, the "keeper of the wardrobe" is mentioned in the context of the reign of King Josiah of Judah. Shallum, the husband of the prophetess Huldah, held this position. The role is highlighted during a significant moment in Judah's history when the Book of the Law was found in the temple, leading to a religious reform under King Josiah.

Role and Significance:

The keeper of the wardrobe was responsible for maintaining the clothing of the king and possibly other members of the royal family. This role was crucial, as clothing in ancient Israel was not only a matter of personal attire but also a symbol of status and authority. The garments of the king would have been made from fine materials and required careful upkeep.

The mention of the keeper of the wardrobe in the context of Huldah the prophetess underscores the interconnectedness of various roles within the royal court and the religious life of Judah. It also highlights the trust placed in individuals who held such positions, as they were often privy to the inner workings of the royal household.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the wardrobe of a king was an important aspect of royal administration. The garments were often elaborate, signifying the king's wealth and divine favor. The keeper of the wardrobe would have been a trusted official, ensuring that the king's appearance reflected his status and the dignity of his office.

The role also suggests a structured and hierarchical society where specific duties were assigned to individuals based on trust and capability. The keeper of the wardrobe, while not a high-ranking official like a priest or prophet, played a vital role in the daily life of the court.

Theological Implications:

From a theological perspective, the mention of the keeper of the wardrobe in the narrative of Josiah's reform serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of God's people and the various roles they play in His divine plan. It illustrates how even seemingly mundane tasks, such as caring for clothing, are part of the larger tapestry of God's work among His people.

The involvement of Huldah, a prophetess, in this narrative also highlights the role of women in the spiritual life of Israel, showing that God used individuals from various walks of life to accomplish His purposes. The keeper of the wardrobe, though a minor character, is part of this broader account of renewal and obedience to God's law.