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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comFausset Bible Dictionary: Weaving
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(See LINEN.) The "fine linen" of Joseph () accords with existing specimens of Egyptian weaving equal to the finest cambric. The Israelites learned from the Egyptians the art, and so could weave the tabernacle curtains (). In Gesenius translated choral (from chur, "white") "they that weave white cloth," for "networks" (; ). The Tyrians got from Egypt their "fine linen with embroidered work" for sails (). Men wove anciently (); latterly females (; ; ; ). The Egyptian loom was upright, and the weaver stood. Jesus' seamless coat was woven "from the top" (). In the "warp" and "woof" are not parts of woven cloth, but yarn prepared for warp and yarn prepared for woof.
The speed of the shuttle, the decisive cutting of the web from the thrum when the web is complete, symbolize the rapid passing away of life and its being cut off at a stroke (; ); each day, like the weaver's shuttle, leaves a thread behind. Textures with gold thread interwoven () were most valuable. The Babylonians wove men and animals on robes; Achan appropriated such a "goodly Babylonish garment" (). Sacerdotal garments were woven without seam (Josephus, Ant. 3:7, section 4); so Jesus' "coat without seam" () was appropriately sacerdotal, as He was at once the Priest and the sacrifice.