Topical Encyclopedia Gold has long been a symbol of wealth, divinity, and beauty, and its use in apparel is well-documented throughout the Bible. This precious metal, with its radiant luster and enduring quality, was often employed in the creation of garments and adornments that signified status, holiness, and divine favor.Biblical References and Context In the Bible, gold is frequently associated with the garments of the high priest and other sacred vestments. In Exodus 28, God provides Moses with detailed instructions for crafting the priestly garments, which include the use of gold. The ephod, a sacred vestment worn by the high priest, was to be made with "gold, and blue, and purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen" (Exodus 28:6). The gold was skillfully woven into the fabric, signifying the garment's sanctity and the high priest's role as a mediator between God and the people. The breastpiece of judgment, another component of the high priest's attire, was also adorned with gold. It was to be crafted with "gold, and blue, and purple, and scarlet yarn, and finely spun linen" (Exodus 28:15). The use of gold in these garments underscored the importance of purity and divine authority in the priestly office. Gold was not limited to priestly garments but was also used in royal apparel. In the Book of Esther, King Ahasuerus is described as wearing a "royal robe of purple and white, with a great crown of gold" (Esther 8:15). This depiction highlights gold's association with royalty and power, as well as its role in conveying the majesty and splendor of a king. Symbolism and Significance The use of gold in apparel throughout the Bible carries deep symbolic meaning. Gold's incorruptibility and brilliance make it an apt representation of divine purity and glory. In the context of priestly garments, gold signifies the holiness required of those who serve in God's presence. It also reflects the wealth and abundance of God's provision for His people, as seen in the lavish descriptions of the Tabernacle and Temple furnishings. Moreover, gold in apparel serves as a reminder of the heavenly reality. In Revelation, the New Jerusalem is described as having streets of pure gold, "as clear as glass" (Revelation 21:21). This imagery connects the earthly use of gold in sacred and royal garments to the eternal splendor of God's kingdom. Cultural and Historical Insights In ancient Near Eastern cultures, gold was a highly prized material, often reserved for the elite and used in religious contexts. The biblical use of gold in apparel reflects these cultural practices, while also setting apart the people of Israel with unique instructions from God. The craftsmanship involved in incorporating gold into garments required skill and artistry, underscoring the value placed on beauty and excellence in worship and leadership. The biblical narrative consistently portrays gold as a material of great worth, used to honor God and signify His presence among His people. Its use in apparel, whether for priests or kings, serves as a testament to the enduring significance of gold in expressing divine and royal attributes. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 45:9,13Kings' daughters were among your honorable women: on your right hand did stand the queen in gold of Ophir. Nave's Topical Index Library Whether the Adornment of Women is Devoid of Mortal Sin? On Clothes. The Empress Eudoxia from the Story of Christian Womanhood in Old ... Treatise ii. On the Dress of virgins. Laboring under Difficulties Footnotes: Chaldaean Civilization The Teaching of Add??us the Apostle. Philippians ii. 11-May On the Ten Points of Doctrine. Resources What is sacrilege? What does it mean to be sacrilegious? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the meaning of Pishon in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of the lampstand in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Gold: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Gold used in the Arts in Ornamenting the Priests' Garments Gold used in the Arts: Apparel Gold used in the Arts: Beaten Work Gold used in the Arts: Bedsteads Made of Gold used in the Arts: Crowns Made of Gold used in the Arts: Into Ornaments Gold used in the Arts: Made Into Wire Threads and Worked Into Embroidered Tapestry Gold used in the Arts: Modeled Into Forms of Fruits Gold used in the Arts: Overlaying With Gold used in the Arts: Shields of Gold used in the Arts: The Lampstands Made of, for the Tabernacle Gold was Used for Mercy Seat and Cherubims Gold was Used for Overlaying Cherubims in Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying Floor of Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying the Ark Gold was Used for Overlaying the Tabernacle Gold was Used for Overlaying the Temple Gold was Used for Overlaying Throne of Solomon Gold was Used for Sacred Candlesticks Gold was Used for Sacred Utensils Gold: Abundance of, in Solomon's Reign Gold: Altar Lamps, and Other Articles Made of Gold: Jews Condemned for Multiplying Gold: Kings of Israel not to Multiply Gold: Liable to Canker and Rust Gold: Most Valuable when Pure and Fine Gold: Offerings of, for Tabernacle Gold: Offerings of, for Temple Gold: Priestly and Royal Garments Adorned With Gold: Refined and Tried by Fire Gold: Taken in War, Dedicated to God Gold: The Patriarchs Were Rich In Gold: Vessels and Utensils Made of, for the Tabernacle Related Terms |
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