Ring
“Ring; signet”
Summary
The ring was an indispensable article of attire in the ancient Near East, serving as a signet for sealing documents and as a symbol of authority, wealth, and honor.
☩Significance and Authority
The ring was regarded as an indispensable article of Hebrew attire, containing the owner's signet seal. The Hebrew term tabbaath is derived from a root signifying 'to impress a seal.' It was the symbol of authority: Pharaoh transferred his ring to Joseph, investing him with royal power. Ahasuerus gave his ring to Haman, authorizing official decrees, and later to Mordecai when Haman fell. The signet ring was worn on the right hand and was treasured as a proverbial expression for what is most valued.
☩Ornamental Use
Rings were worn not only by men but also by women, appearing in Isaiah's list of fashionable feminine ornaments. They were enumerated among articles presented for the service of the tabernacle. The ancient Egyptians wore many rings, sometimes two or three on the same finger, particularly favoring the left hand and the fourth finger. Rings were mostly of gold, though silver rings occasionally appear. Bronze, brass, iron, ivory, and blue porcelain were materials used by lower classes.
☩New Testament Usage
In the parable of the prodigal son, the father ordered a ring to be placed on his son's finger, signifying restored honor and the right to act in the father's name. James warns against giving undue respect to a man who comes into the assembly 'golden-ringed,' his hands adorned with multiple rings indicating wealth and rank. The equestrian ring was a badge of Roman rank, and the warning applies to Christians showing partiality based on outward appearances.
Related Verses43 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Ring," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Ring," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Ring," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).
- 4.F. N. Peloubet & M. A. Peloubet (ed.), "Ring," in Smith's Bible Dictionary (Porter & Coates, 1884).
- 5.Andrew Robert Fausset, "Ring," in The Englishman's Critical and Expository Bible Cyclopædia (Hodder & Stoughton, 1878).