The making of garments in biblical times is a topic that reflects both the cultural practices and the spiritual symbolism found throughout the Scriptures. Clothing in the Bible is often mentioned in the context of daily life, religious rituals, and divine instruction, highlighting its significance in ancient Israelite society.

Materials and Techniques

The primary materials used for making garments in biblical times were wool, linen, and occasionally leather. Wool was derived from sheep, while linen was made from the flax plant. The process of making garments involved several steps, including shearing, spinning, weaving, and sewing. Exodus 35:25-26 describes the skilled work of women in spinning yarn: "Every skilled woman spun with her hands and brought what she had spun—blue, purple, or scarlet yarn, or fine linen. And all the women whose hearts were stirred and whose spirit moved them came and spun the goat hair."

Weaving was a common technique, and looms were used to create fabric. The Book of Proverbs highlights the industrious nature of the virtuous woman, who "selects wool and flax and works with eager hands" (Proverbs 31:13).

Garments in Daily Life

In everyday life, garments served practical purposes, providing protection and modesty. Common garments included tunics, cloaks, and girdles. The tunic was a basic garment worn next to the skin, while the cloak was an outer garment used for warmth and protection against the elements. The girdle, or belt, was used to secure the tunic and carry small items.

The Bible also records specific instructions regarding clothing, such as the prohibition against wearing garments made of mixed fabrics, as stated in Leviticus 19:19 : "You are to keep My statutes. You shall not breed your livestock with different kinds, nor sow your field with two kinds of seed, nor wear a garment of two kinds of fabric."

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

Garments in the Bible often carry symbolic meanings. They can represent righteousness, authority, and identity. For instance, the robe of Joseph, described as a "robe of many colors" (Genesis 37:3), symbolizes his father's favor and the unique destiny God had for him.

Priestly garments hold particular spiritual significance. In Exodus 28, God provides detailed instructions for the garments of the high priest, including the ephod, breastplate, and turban. These garments were designed "for glory and for beauty" (Exodus 28:2) and signified the priest's role as a mediator between God and the people.

The New Testament also uses clothing metaphorically to describe spiritual truths. Believers are exhorted to "put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" (Ephesians 4:24). This imagery emphasizes the transformation and renewal that come through faith in Christ.

Cultural and Historical Context

The making of garments in biblical times was a labor-intensive process that required skill and dedication. It was often a communal activity, with families and communities working together to produce clothing. The production and trade of textiles were significant aspects of the economy in ancient Israel and the surrounding regions.

Garments also played a role in social and economic status. Fine linen and purple garments were associated with wealth and nobility, as seen in the description of the rich man in Luke 16:19 : "Now there was a rich man dressed in purple and fine linen, who lived each day in joyous splendor."

In summary, the making of garments in the Bible encompasses practical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions. It reflects the daily life of ancient peoples, the divine instructions given to God's chosen people, and the deeper spiritual truths conveyed through the imagery of clothing.