Embroidery(needlework)
“Variegated work; embroiderer”
Summary
Embroidery in biblical times referred to ornamental needlework featuring variegated colors and designs, used to decorate garments of nobility, priestly vestments, and tabernacle furnishings. The Hebrew terms distinguish between different types of decorative textile work, though the exact techniques remain uncertain.
☩Hebrew Terminology
Two main Hebrew terms relate to embroidery. Riqmah designates cloth with variegated designs, whether woven, stitched, or otherwise produced (Judg 5:30; Ps 45:14; Ezek 16:10, 13, 18; 26:16; 27:7, 16, 24). Ma'aseh roqem, 'the work of the embroiderer,' describes the craftsmanship used in tabernacle hangings (Exod 26:36; 27:16; 28:39; 36:37; 38:18; 39:29). The distinction between roqem ('embroiderer') and 'aragh ('weaver') suggests embroiderers' work differed from ordinary weaving, likely involving needlework applied to finished cloth.
☩Tabernacle and Priestly Use
God gifted Bezaleel and Aholiab with wisdom for embroidery work on the tabernacle (Exod 35:35; 38:23). The screen for the tabernacle door was 'needlework, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen' (Exod 26:36). Similar embroidered work decorated the gate of the court (27:16) and components of priestly garments. This skilled work adorned the central sanctuary of Israel's worship, showing God's delight in beauty and craftsmanship devoted to his service.
Related Verses17 mentions
References
- 1.James Orr (ed.), "Embroidery," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Embroidery," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).