In biblical times, lambs and goats were integral to the daily life and economy of the Israelites, serving not only as sources of food and sacrificial offerings but also as providers of materials for clothing. The use of wool from lambs and hair from goats is well-documented in Scripture, reflecting the pastoral lifestyle of the ancient Near East.

Lambs and Wool

Lambs, the young of sheep, were highly valued for their wool, which was a primary material for clothing. Wool was prized for its warmth, durability, and versatility. The process of shearing sheep and spinning wool into thread was a common practice, as indicated in various biblical passages. In Proverbs 31:13, the virtuous woman is described as one who "selects wool and flax and works with eager hands," highlighting the importance of wool in domestic life.

The significance of wool is further underscored in the context of offerings and religious observance. In Leviticus 13:47-48, the laws concerning leprosy in garments mention woolen materials, indicating their prevalence and value. Wool was also used in the construction of the Tabernacle, as seen in Exodus 25:4, where blue, purple, and scarlet yarns, along with fine linen, were specified for the sacred tent.

Goats and Hair

Goats, like sheep, were essential livestock in biblical times. Their hair was used to make a coarse fabric known as sackcloth, often associated with mourning and repentance. The use of goat hair is mentioned in the construction of the Tabernacle, where it was used to make curtains (Exodus 26:7). This fabric was durable and suitable for tents, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle of the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings.

The prominence of goats in the biblical narrative is also seen in their role in sacrificial practices and as symbols in parables and prophecies. However, their contribution to clothing through the provision of hair was a practical aspect of their value to the community.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

Beyond their practical uses, lambs and goats hold deep symbolic meanings in Scripture. The lamb is often associated with innocence and sacrifice, most notably in the figure of Jesus Christ, the "Lamb of God" (John 1:29). This symbolism extends to the Passover lamb, whose blood marked the homes of the Israelites, sparing them from the final plague in Egypt (Exodus 12:3-13).

Goats, on the other hand, are sometimes depicted in a less favorable light, as seen in the parable of the sheep and the goats in Matthew 25:31-46. Here, goats represent those who fail to live righteously, contrasting with the sheep who inherit the kingdom of God.

In summary, lambs and goats were vital to the material culture of biblical times, providing essential resources for clothing and other uses. Their symbolic roles in Scripture further enrich their significance, offering insights into the spiritual truths conveyed through the biblical narrative.