Verse 22
22. Coverings of tapestry Coverlets woven of wool and silk, often enriched with gold and silver, representing various figures. Latin critics render the passage simply, “She maketh for herself coverlets.” But some kind of ornamental work seems to be intended.
Silk שׁשׁ , ( shesh,) rather, fine white linen or cotton cloth, probably the byssus of Egypt. The word is applied to both linen and cotton fabrics. Silk was probably not known to the Hebrews in the age of Solomon.
Purple ארגמן , ( argaman.) The root of the word is uncertain. Gesenius derives it from the Sanscrit. The Septuagint renders it porphura, and the Vulgate purpura. It is applied both to the purple fish and the purple colour. Here it means purple cloth. Purple and fine linen seem to have been used by the ancients conventionally for rich and elegant clothing. Comp. Luke 16:19. The editor of Calmet contends that argaman signifies “variegated,” or of different talents. He translates thus: Her upper garments (gown, robe) she makes of fine cambric, etc., wrought in pattern; and of brocade or tissue, her lower garment, (petticoat.) This good housewife does not despise the esthetic in her person and household. She discovers the utility of beauty as well as the beauty of utility.
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