The common girdle was made of leather ( 2 Kings 1:8 ; Matthew 3:4 ); a finer sort of linen ( Jeremiah 13:1 ; Ezekiel 16:10 ; Daniel 10:5 ). Girdles of sackcloth were worn in token of sorrow ( Isaiah 3:24 ; 22:12 ). They were variously fastened to the wearer ( Mark 1:6 ; Jeremiah 13:1 ; Ezekiel 16:10 ).
The girdle was a symbol of strength and power ( Job 12:18 Job 12:21 ; 30:11 ; Isaiah 22:21 ; 45:5 ). "Righteousness and faithfulness" are the girdle of the Messiah ( Isaiah 11:5 ).
Girdles were used as purses or pockets ( Matthew 10:9 . A. V., "purses;" RSV, marg., "girdles." Also Mark 6:8 ).
M.G. Easton M.A., D.D., Illustrated Bible Dictionary, Third Edition,
published by Thomas Nelson, 1897. Public Domain, copy freely.
[N] indicates this entry was also found in Nave's Topical Bible
[S] indicates this entry was also found in Smith's Bible Dictionary
Bibliography InformationEaston, Matthew George. "Entry for Girdle". "Easton's Bible Dictionary".