Rending Of Clothes
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia [1]
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 .
