Bible Dictionary
Embroider
To embroider is to decorate cloth with skilled needlework or woven designs. Embroidery was used in Israel for clothing, priestly garments, and other ornamental textiles.
Definition
To embroider is to decorate cloth with ornamental needlework or woven designs. The art was known among the Israelites and was used for clothing, priestly garments, and other textiles.
Biblical Usage
Embroidery is associated with the preparation of the high priest’s garments and with ornamental clothing and textiles mentioned in Scripture.
Historical Background
The art was also practiced among other ancient peoples, including the Assyrians, who were noted for embroidered robes. Among the Israelites, the skill appears to have become hereditary in some families.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
The art of embroidery was known to the Jews (Ex. 26:36; 35:35; 38:23; Judg. 5:30; Ps. 45:14). The skill of the women in this art was seen in the preparation of the sacerdotal robes of the high priest (Ex. 28). It seems that the art became hereditary in certain families (1 Chr. 4:21). The Assyrians were also noted for their embroidered robes (Ezek. 27:24).