• Heb. hesheb, the "curious girdle" (Exodus 28:8; RSV, "cunningly woven band") was attached to the ephod, and was made of the same material.

    The common girdle was made of leather (2 Kings 1:8; Matthew 3:4 ); a finer sort of linen (Jeremiah 13:1; Ezekiel 16:10; Daniel 10:5 ). Girdles of sackcloth were worn in token of sorrow (Isaiah 3:24; 22:12 ). They were variously fastened to the wearer (Mark 1:6; Jeremiah 13:1; Ezekiel 16:10 ).

    The girdle was a symbol of strength and power (Job 12:18,21; 30:11; Isaiah 22:21; 45:5 ). "Righteousness and faithfulness" are the girdle of the Messiah (Isaiah 11:5 ).

    Girdles were used as purses or pockets (Matthew 10:9 . A. V., "purses;" RSV, marg., "girdles." Also Mark 6:8 ).

    Copyright StatementThese dictionary topics are from M.G. Easton M.A., D.D., Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Third Edition, published by Thomas Nelson, 1897. Public Domain.

    Bibliography InformationEaston, Matthew George. Entry for 'Girdle'. Easton's Bible Dictionary. https://www.studylight.org/dictionaries/eng/ebd/g/girdle.html. 1897.