Spindle
“Director, that which guides the spindle”
Summary
The implement used in spinning thread, praised in the description of the virtuous woman in Proverbs.
☩Description and Use
The spindle was the lower part of the spinning instrument that gave motion to the whole. It was generally of wood, with the circular head made of gypsum or composition to increase spinning force. In the East, the spindle is held vertically in one hand and twirled while the other draws out the thread. The virtuous woman 'layeth her hands to the spindle.'
☩Cultural Significance
Spinning was a noble occupation for women of all ranks. In Egypt, spinning was a major manufacture with yarn exported widely. In Greek culture, even ladies of high rank superintended servants' spinning and used the distaff themselves. The spindle, often made of precious materials, was a standard accompaniment of noble women in both Egyptian paintings and Greek poetry.
Related Verses1 mention
Proverbs· 1 verse
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Spindle," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).