Bible Dictionaries
Girdle

Holman Bible Dictionary

Several items of clothing in KJV: (1) an ornate sash worn by the officiating priests (Exodus 28:4 ,Exodus 28:4,28:40 ) and by the wealthy of Jerusalem (Isaiah 3:24 ); (2) a decorated band (NRSV), woven belt (TEV, NAS), or waistband (NIV, REB) for the high priest's ephod (Exodus 28:8 ,Exodus 28:8,28:27-28 ); (3) a belt on which a sword or bow might be carried (1 Samuel 18:4; 2 Samuel 20:8; perhaps Isaiah 5:27 ); a leather belt forming part of the proverbial garb of the prophets (2 Kings 1:8; Matthew 3:4 ); (4) an undergarment (Job 12:18; Jeremiah 13:1-11 ), often rendered waistcloth or loincloth.

To gird up one's loins means literally to tuck the loose ends of one's outer garment into one's belt. Loins were girded in preparation for running (1 Kings 18:46 ), for battle (Isaiah 5:27 ), or for service for a master (Luke 12:35 ). The call to “gird up the loins of your minds” (1 Peter 1:13 ) means to be spiritually alert and prepared. See Cloth, Clothing .