Robe
“A covering, upper garment”
Summary
The robe was an outer garment of distinction worn by royalty, priests, and persons of rank, symbolizing authority, honor, and status in biblical culture.
☩Priestly and Royal Robes
The high priest's robe (me'il) was a distinctive garment of blue, with pomegranates and golden bells on its hem, worn under the ephod. Kings wore royal robes signifying their authority; Ahab and Jehoshaphat wore their robes in battle, and the mocking soldiers placed a scarlet robe on Jesus. Jonathan's gift of his robe to David symbolized the transfer of his position as heir to the throne.
☩Symbolic Significance
Robes carried deep symbolic meaning throughout Scripture. The prodigal son was restored to honor when his father brought forth the best robe for him. In prophetic vision, the redeemed are clothed in white robes, washed in the blood of the Lamb. Isaiah rejoices that God has clothed him with 'the robe of righteousness,' picturing the garments of salvation believers receive.
Related Verses37 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Robe," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Robe," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Robe," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).