Bible Dictionary
BUCKLE
A buckle was a gold fastening used to secure a mantle or outer robe at the shoulder or chest. Jonathan Maccabeus received one from Alexander Balas as a mark of royal favor.
Definition
A buckle is a gold fastening used to secure a mantle or outer garment at the shoulder or chest. It may also function as an ornament and mark of rank or royal favor.
Biblical Usage
Jonathan Maccabeus received a gold buckle from Alexander Balas as a mark of favor. Its use was restricted to those of royal blood.
Historical Background
The buckle fastened the mantle or outer robe on the shoulder or chest and served as a visible distinction of royal status.
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>buk'-'-l (porpe): As a mark of favor Jonathan Maccabeus was presented by Alexander Balas with a buckle of gold (1 Macc 10:89), the wearing of which was restricted to the blood royal. The buckle was used for fastening the mantle or outer robe on the shoulder or chest.</p>