klōthz , (קריעת בּגדים , kerı̄‛ath beghādhı̄m ): This term is used to describe an ordinary tear made in a garment. Samuel's skirt was rent when Saul laid hold upon it (1 Samuel 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 (1 Samuel 4:12 ). David rent his garments when he heard that Absalom had slain his brothers (2 Samuel 13:31 ). See also 2 Samuel 15:32; 2 Kings 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 .
The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) was edited by James Orr, John Nuelsen, Edgar Mullins, Morris Evans, and Melvin Grove Kyle and was published complete in 1939. This web site includes the complete text.
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