Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the term "tresses" refers to locks or braids of hair, often associated with beauty, femininity, and sometimes spiritual symbolism. The concept of tresses is primarily found in poetic and wisdom literature within the Bible, where it is used to convey imagery of beauty and allure.Song of Solomon The most notable reference to tresses is found in the Song of Solomon, a poetic book that celebrates love and beauty. In Song of Solomon 4:1 , the beloved is described with admiration: "How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how very beautiful! Your eyes are like doves behind your veil. Your hair is like a flock of goats streaming down Mount Gilead." Here, the imagery of flowing hair, likened to a flock of goats, emphasizes the beauty and grace of the beloved. The reference to Mount Gilead suggests a sense of abundance and natural beauty, as the region was known for its lush pastures. Cultural and Symbolic Significance In ancient Near Eastern culture, hair was often seen as a symbol of vitality and attractiveness. The care and styling of hair, including the creation of tresses, were important aspects of personal grooming and social status. For women, long and well-kept hair was a sign of femininity and could be an expression of one's identity and dignity. The Bible occasionally uses hair as a metaphor for spiritual truths. For instance, in 1 Corinthians 11:15 , Paul writes, "But if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For long hair is given to her as a covering." This passage highlights the cultural understanding of hair as a symbol of honor and propriety, reflecting the divine order in creation. Historical Context In biblical times, hairstyles varied across different cultures and periods. The Israelites, like their neighbors, would have had their own customs regarding hair. Tresses, or braided hair, were likely a common style among women, serving both practical and aesthetic purposes. Braiding helped manage long hair and could be adorned with ribbons or jewelry for special occasions. Spiritual Reflections The imagery of tresses in the Bible invites reflection on the nature of beauty and its connection to the divine. While physical beauty is celebrated, it is often seen as a reflection of inner qualities and spiritual truths. The care and adornment of hair can be viewed as an expression of one's devotion and reverence for God's creation. In summary, tresses in the Bible are more than just a physical attribute; they carry cultural, symbolic, and spiritual significance. Through the poetic language of Scripture, tresses become a metaphor for beauty, grace, and the divine order established by God. Greek 2863. komao -- to wear long hair ... have long hair. From kome; to wear tresses of hair -- have long hair. see GREEK kome. (koma) -- 2 Occurrences. 2862, 2863. komao. 2864 . Strong's Numbers. //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/2863.htm - 6k Strong's Hebrew 7298b. rahat -- perhaps lock (of hair)... 7298a, 7298b. rahat. 7299 . perhaps lock (of hair). Transliteration: rahat Short Definition: tresses. Word Origin from an unused ... /hebrew/7298b.htm - 5k 4748. miqsheh -- (an artistic) hairdo Library Notes Andromeda Saving Faith Go in Peace Changed Conditions The Longbeards' Saga. AD 400 The Tide Rock Ballad of Earl Haldan's Daughter That the Persecution Originated on Account of the Oracle of Apollo ... The Woman which was a Sinner Thesaurus Tresses (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Tresses (1 Occurrence). ... The hair of your head like purple. The king is held captive in its tresses. (WEB JPS ASV NAS RSV NIV). ... /t/tresses.htm - 6k Hair (135 Occurrences) Gallery (2 Occurrences) Tressing (1 Occurrence) Trespass-offerings (2 Occurrences) Captivated (3 Occurrences) Carmel (33 Occurrences) Purple (54 Occurrences) Captive (123 Occurrences) Resources Tresses: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Tresses (1 Occurrence)Song of Songs 7:5 Subtopics Related Terms |