CHANGES OF RAIMENT ( Genesis 45:22 , Judges 14:12 f., 2 Kings 5:5 ). A literal tr. [Note: translate or translation.] of a Heb. expression which not merely denotes a change of garments in the modern sense, but implies that the ‘changes’ are superior, in material or texture or both, to those ordinarily worn. Hence ‘gala dresses,’ ‘festal robes,’ or the like, may be taken as a fair equivalent. Gifts of such gala robes have always been common in the East as special marks of favour or distinction. Cf. Dress, § 7 .
A. R. S. Kennedy.