Topical Encyclopedia
The term "sews" does not appear directly in the Bible; however, the concept of sewing and related activities is present throughout the Scriptures. Sewing, as a craft and necessity, is often associated with the making of garments, tents, and other essential items in biblical times. This entry explores the biblical context and significance of sewing, drawing from various passages and themes.
Biblical Context and Significance1.
Sewing in the Old Testament: · The art of sewing is first implied in the Book of Genesis. After Adam and Eve sinned, they realized their nakedness and sewed fig leaves together to make loincloths (
Genesis 3:7). This act of sewing represents humanity's initial attempt to cover sin and shame.
· The construction of the Tabernacle involved skilled craftsmanship, including sewing.
Exodus 26:1 describes the making of the Tabernacle curtains: "You are to make the tabernacle with ten curtains of finely twisted linen, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully worked into them." This highlights the importance of sewing in creating sacred spaces for worship.
2.
Sewing in the New Testament: · In the New Testament, sewing is mentioned in the context of mending garments. Jesus uses the metaphor of sewing in His teaching: "No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, and a worse tear will result" (
Mark 2:21). This parable illustrates the incompatibility of the old and new covenants.
· The virtuous woman described in
Proverbs 31 is noted for her skills in sewing and garment-making: "She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchants" (
Proverbs 31:24). This passage underscores the value of industriousness and skill in providing for one's household.
3.
Symbolism and Themes: · Sewing in the Bible often symbolizes preparation, provision, and care. The act of sewing garments for oneself or others is a demonstration of love and responsibility.
· The metaphor of sewing is also used to convey spiritual truths. Just as sewing requires precision and care, so does the spiritual life require diligence and attention to detail.
4.
Cultural and Historical Insights: · In biblical times, sewing was a vital skill, especially for women, who were often responsible for making and mending clothing for their families. The materials used, such as wool, linen, and leather, were carefully prepared and crafted into garments.
· The process of sewing was labor-intensive and required significant skill, reflecting the industrious nature of those who practiced it.
ConclusionWhile the act of sewing is not a central theme in the Bible, it serves as a backdrop for various teachings and narratives. Through the lens of sewing, the Scriptures reveal insights into human nature, divine provision, and the intricate work of God's creation.
Greek
1976. epirapto -- to sew upon... I sew (on). Word Origin from epi and the same as rhaphis Definition to
sew upon NASB Word Usage
sews (1). sew onto. From epi and
...Library
1 Cor. xiv. 34
... Therefore he represses their babbling with much authority, and taking the law along
with him, thus hesews up their mouths; not simply exhorting here or giving...
Jesus Finds Joy in all his Work
... No onesews a piece of new cloth on an old coat; otherwise the patch breaks away
from it, the new from the old, and the tear is made worse....
Genesis.
... 165 With sluggish cold should be benumbed, the Lord. Hides flayed from cattle's
flesh togethersews,. With vestures warm their bare limbs covering....
Israel's Obstinacy and God's Patience
... The surgeon is carrying out one plan when he cuts deep into the quivering flesh,
and when hesews up the wounds which he himself has made....
Man and Machinery.
... For, he does something. If he onlysews a welt, or planes a knot, he helps
build up the solid pyramid of this world's welfare. While...
Whither Goest Thou?
... be afraid of. He thatsews fig leaves together, as Adam did, that he may
hide himself from God, must know that he is naked. If he...
Thesaurus
Sews (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance
Sews (2 Occurrences). Mark 2:21 No one
sews a piece
of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, or else the patch
...Sex (51 Occurrences)
Unshrunk (2 Occurrences)
... Mark 2:21 No onesews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, or else the patch
shrinks and the new tears away from the old, and a worse hole is made....
Garment (143 Occurrences)
... Mark 2:21 No onesews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, or else the patch
shrinks and the new tears away from the old, and a worse hole is made....
Worse (62 Occurrences)
... Mark 2:21 No onesews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, or else the patch
shrinks and the new tears away from the old, and a worse hole is made....
Filling-up (1 Occurrence)
... Mark 2:21 No onesews a patch of new cloth on an old garment: otherwise its new
filling-up takes from the old stuff, and there is a worse rent. (DBY)....
Filling (29 Occurrences)
... Mark 2:21 No onesews a patch of new cloth on an old garment: otherwise its new
filling-up takes from the old stuff, and there is a worse rent. (DBY YLT)....
Tear (97 Occurrences)
... Mark 2:21 No onesews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, or else the patch
shrinks and the new tears away from the old, and a worse hole is made....
Tears (58 Occurrences)
... Mark 2:21 No onesews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, or else the patch
shrinks and the new tears away from the old, and a worse hole is made....
Patch (5 Occurrences)
... Mark 2:21 No onesews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, or else the patch
shrinks and the new tears away from the old, and a worse hole is made....
Resources
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