Wool
“Tsemer, the material of the fleece; gez refers to the fleece itself (shearing)”
Summary
Wool was a highly valued material in ancient Israel, used extensively for clothing and serving as a symbol of purity and whiteness in Scripture.
☩Use and Value
Wool was used extensively by the Hebrews from an early period for clothing. Its importance is shown by the notice that Mesha's tribute was paid in rams 'with the wool,' and by its being specified among first-fruits offered to priests. The first fleece of sheep belonged to the priests as their due. The wool of Damascus was highly prized in the markets of Tyre, compared by the Septuagint to the famous wool of Miletus. Syrian wool remains an important trade item today, though quality varies due to contamination from the barren terrain where sheep graze.
☩Laws Concerning Wool
The Mosaic law prohibited mixing wool with linen in garments, representing an unnatural mixture symbolizing the improper mixing of things that should be kept separate. Priests were forbidden to wear woolen garments while ministering in the Temple, required instead to wear linen. Wool dyed scarlet was used in certain purification ceremonies, including with the ashes of the red heifer.
☩Symbolic Uses
Wool served as a powerful symbol of purity and brilliance in Scripture. Isaiah declared that sins though scarlet could become 'white as wool.' Daniel's vision of the Ancient of Days describes His hair as 'white like wool,' imagery repeated in Revelation's description of the glorified Christ. The whiteness of snow is compared to wool, and wool's white color before dyeing represents the pure state of restoration from sin.
Related Verses19 mentions
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Wool," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. X (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Wool," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. V (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Wool," in Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1915–1918).
- 4.George Morrish, "Wool," in Morrish's Concise Bible Dictionary (George Morrish, 1898).