Weaving was a very creative process that allowed the weavers to express themselves in a variety of ways. In extreme cases, alteration in thread colors and interlacing technique could produce cloth that was intricately designed and had a unique texture. The only limitation on this creative process for the Israelites was the requirement that they not mix different types of thread when making clothing (Lev 19:19; Deut 22:11). Cloth was also woven to play a role in the worship life of God’s Old Testament people. During their early years, the worship facility they used had to be light and portable because they were traveling so often.

Consequently, the walls and screens of the tabernacle were made woven cloth (Exod 26:1, 31, 36; 27:16; 35:35; 36:8, 35, 37; 38:18). The garments worn by the clergy were also carefully defined and then woven by skilled artists (Exod 28:4,8,32,39; 29:5; 31:10; 35:19; 39:1, 3, 5, 8, 22, 29, 41) who were specifically trained for the task (Exod 35:34-35; 38:23). These unique and beautiful items continually reminded God’s people at worship that they had entered a sacred space.

But these frequent and positive mentions of weaving contrast with two instances of weaving that have a darker side. The Lord had given Samson great strength in order to liberate his people from the oppression of the Philistines. But one evening he teased his beloved Delilah with the notion that if only she would weave the seven braids of his hair into a loom, he would become as weak as any other man (Judg 16:13). END OF PART 2