Bible Dictionaries
Girdle

Easton's Bible Dictionary

  • Heb. hagor, a girdle of any kind worn by soldiers (1 Samuel 18:4; 2 Samuel 20:8; 1 Kings 2:5; 2 Kings 3:21 ) or women (Isaiah 3:24 ).

  • Heb. 'ezor, something "bound," worn by prophets (2 Kings 1:8; Jeremiah 13:1 ), soldiers (Isaiah 5:27; 2 Samuel 20:8; Ezekiel 23:15 ), Kings (Job 12:18 ).

  • Heb. mezah, a "band," a girdle worn by men alone (Psalm 109:19; Isaiah 22:21 ).

  • Heb. 'abnet, the girdle of sacerdotal and state officers (Exodus 28:4,39,40; 29:9; 39:29 ).

  • Heb. hesheb, the "curious girdle" (Exodus 28:8; RSV, "cunningly woven band") was attached to the ephod, and was made of the same material.

    The common girdle was made of leather (2 Kings 1:8; Matthew 3:4 ); a finer sort of linen (Jeremiah 13:1; Ezekiel 16:10; Daniel 10:5 ). Girdles of sackcloth were worn in token of sorrow (Isaiah 3:24; 22:12 ). They were variously fastened to the wearer (Mark 1:6; Jeremiah 13:1; Ezekiel 16:10 ).

    The girdle was a symbol of strength and power (Job 12:18,21; 30:11; Isaiah 22:21; 45:5 ). "Righteousness and faithfulness" are the girdle of the Messiah (Isaiah 11:5 ).

    Girdles were used as purses or pockets (Matthew 10:9 . A. V., "purses;" RSV, marg., "girdles." Also Mark 6:8 ).

    Copyright Statement
    These dictionary topics are from M.G. Easton M.A., D.D., Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Third Edition, published by Thomas Nelson, 1897. Public Domain.
    Bibliography Information
    Easton, Matthew George. Entry for 'Girdle'. Easton's Bible Dictionary. https://www.studylight.org/​dictionaries/​eng/​ebd/​g/girdle.html. 1897.
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