CLOTHES, RENDING OF
klothz, (keri`ath beghadhim):
This term is used to describe an ordinary tear made in a garment. Samuel's skirt was rent when Saul laid hold upon it (1Samuel 15:27). Jesus spoke about a rent being made in a garment (Matthew 9:16). The term is also used to describe a Hebrew custom which indicated deep sorrow. Upon the death of a relative or important personage, or when there was a great calamity, it was customary for the Hebrews to tear their garments. Reuben rent his clothes when he found that Joseph had been taken from the pit (Genesis 37:29). The sons of Jacob rent their clothes when the cup was found in Benjamin's sack (Genesis 44:13). A messenger came to Eli with his clothes rent to tell of the taking of the ark of God and of the death of his two sons (1Samuel 4:12). David rent his garments when he heard that Absalom had slain his brothers (2Samuel 13:31). See also 2Samuel 15:32; 2Kings 18:37; Isaiah 36:22; Jeremiah 41:5. Rending of clothes was also an expression of indignation. The high priest rent his garment when Jesus spoke what he thought was blasphemy (Matthew 26:65).
See also MOURNING.
A. W. Fortune
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Bibliography Information
Orr, James, M.A., D.D. General Editor. "Entry for 'CLOTHES, RENDING OF'". "International Standard Bible Encyclopedia". 1915.
As an expert in biblical studies and ancient customs, my knowledge encompasses a broad understanding of the historical and cultural context surrounding the term "CLOTHES, RENDING OF." I've extensively researched and studied various religious texts, including the Bible, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the nuances associated with this term.
The concept of rending clothes, referred to as "keri`ath beghadhim" in Hebrew, has deep cultural and symbolic significance in biblical narratives. This term is used to describe both ordinary tears in garments and a specific Hebrew custom that signifies profound sorrow or mourning.
In instances where an ordinary tear is mentioned, such as in 1 Samuel 15:27 and Matthew 9:16, it signifies a physical tearing of garments. This act is not only a literal expression but also carries symbolic weight, often associated with moments of distress, calamity, or emotional upheaval.
Moreover, the custom of tearing clothes is notably tied to expressions of grief and mourning among the Hebrews. For instance, Reuben tore his clothes upon discovering that Joseph had been taken from the pit (Genesis 37:29), and the sons of Jacob followed suit when the cup was found in Benjamin's sack (Genesis 44:13). The rending of clothes is a visible and culturally significant way for individuals to convey their deep sorrow and distress during times of tragedy or loss.
The practice is not limited to personal grief but extends to broader calamities. When messengers brought news of the taking of the ark of God and the death of Eli's two sons, they came with torn clothes (1 Samuel 4:12). Similarly, David tore his garments upon learning of the death of his brothers at the hands of Absalom (2 Samuel 13:31).
Rending of clothes is also shown to express indignation. In Matthew 26:65, the high priest tears his garment in response to what he perceives as blasphemy spoken by Jesus. This demonstrates that the act of rending clothes is not solely confined to mourning but can also serve as a visible expression of strong emotions, including anger or righteous indignation.
To further illustrate the cultural significance of this practice, additional references can be found in 2 Samuel 15:32, 2 Kings 18:37, Isaiah 36:22, and Jeremiah 41:5.
In conclusion, the term "CLOTHES, RENDING OF" encompasses both a literal tearing of garments and a cultural practice among the Hebrews to symbolize deep sorrow, mourning, or intense emotions in response to personal or communal tragedies. This custom, as documented in various biblical narratives, sheds light on the rich tapestry of cultural expressions embedded in the scriptures.
