Silk
“Fabric from Seres (China)”
Summary
A luxurious fabric mentioned in Scripture as a symbol of wealth and extravagance, particularly associated with Babylon's commerce and Israel's adornment by God.
☩Biblical References
The only undisputed mention of silk occurs in Revelation among Babylon's luxurious merchandise—silk, along with gold, precious stones, and fine linen. In Ezekiel's allegory of Jerusalem as an adorned bride, God says He clothed her with fine linen and covered her with silk. The term may also appear in other passages, though some references may indicate fine linen or other expensive fabrics.
☩Origin and Trade
Silk originated in China, from which the Greek name 'serikon' derives. The fabric reached the Mediterranean world through ancient trade routes, though the process of silk production remained a closely guarded Chinese secret for millennia. By New Testament times, silk was known throughout the Roman Empire as an extremely costly luxury import. The commercial routes through which it traveled were ancient, and Isaiah's mention of Sinim may indicate early awareness of China.
☩Symbolic Significance
Silk symbolizes luxury, wealth, and worldly splendor. In Revelation, Babylon's trafficking in silk represents her commercial opulence and material excess. God's clothing Jerusalem with silk in Ezekiel represents the abundant blessings He lavished on His people—making them beautiful and renowned among nations—blessings they later corrupted through idolatry.
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Silk," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Silk," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. IV (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.F. N. Peloubet & M. A. Peloubet (ed.), "Silk," in Smith's Bible Dictionary (Porter & Coates, 1884).