Weaving
“Arag, to weave; also denotes both the web and the shuttle”
Summary
Weaving was an ancient and highly developed craft among the Israelites, who learned advanced techniques in Egypt and produced both common fabrics and the fine artistic textiles of the Tabernacle.
☩History and Development
Weaving appears to be coeval with the earliest civilization, practiced with great skill by the Egyptians from very early times. The 'vestures of fine linen' Joseph wore were products of Egyptian looms, with quality not inferior to the finest modern cambric. The Israelites likely knew weaving before their sojourn in Egypt, but there they attained the proficiency needed to execute the hangings of the Tabernacle and other artistic textures. While men wove in earlier times, it later fell to women to supply household clothing.
☩Looms and Process
The Egyptian loom was usually upright, with the weaver standing at work. The cloth was fixed sometimes at top, sometimes at bottom. Scripture mentions the beam to which warp was attached, the pin or shuttle used to pass the woof through, and the web itself. The shuttle's speed provided Job an image of life's rapid passage, while the decisive cutting of the web from the thrum when work was done symbolized sudden death. Jesus' seamless coat was woven 'from the top' at an upright loom.
☩Materials and Products
Coarse textures like tent-cloth and sackcloth were made from goat's or camel's hair, while wool served for ordinary clothing and flax for finer work. Mixing wool and flax in a garment was prohibited by law. Ornamental weaving produced variegated textures, tesselated patterns, and fabrics with gold thread interwoven. The Babylonians excelled at weaving figures of men and animals on robes—Achan's 'goodly Babylonish garment' was likely of this kind.
Related Verses10 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Weaving," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. X (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.F. N. Peloubet & M. A. Peloubet (ed.), "Weaving," in Smith's Bible Dictionary (Porter & Coates, 1884).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Weaving," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).