In the Bible, “fashion” often refers to the external appearance or way of life that reflects one’s inner character or beliefs. It underscores the importance of inner virtue over outward conformity, as seen in passages like 1 Peter 3:3-4, which emphasizes the value of a gentle and quiet spirit over extravagant adornment.
Scripture
6 So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate, and she also gave some to her husband who was with her, and he ate.
7 Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked. And they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves loincloths.
Biblical Meaning of Fashion
The concept of “fashion” in the Bible primarily highlights the distinction between external appearances and internal virtue. In 1 Peter 3:3-4, the apostle Peter advises women not to focus solely on outward adornments such as elaborate hairstyles or jewelry but to cultivate the inner self, characterized by a “gentle and quiet spirit,” which is of great worth in God’s sight. This teaching reflects a broader biblical theme that values the heart and character over superficiality. The emphasis on inner beauty suggests that while outward fashion can be an expression of individuality, it should never eclipse the call to embody love, humility, and righteousness, as seen in 1 Samuel 16:7, which reminds us that “the LORD looks at the heart.”
Moreover, the concept of fashion can also serve as a metaphor for one’s moral and spiritual lifestyle. In Galatians 5:22-23, the Apostle Paul discusses the “fruit of the Spirit,” indicating that a person’s true fashioning comes from the manifestation of virtues like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control. In this sense, “fashion” transcends the mere physical realm, pointing to how individuals express their faith and values through their actions and interactions with others. Thus, biblical fashion is rooted in moral integrity and spiritual authenticity, framing it as a more profound reflection of one’s relationship with God than any external adornment could convey.
The theme of fashion in the Bible can also be understood in the context of community and identity. In the Old Testament, for instance, the Israelites were instructed about specific garments and their meanings, such as the ephod worn by the high priest, which was adorned with ornate symbols representing the tribes of Israel. These garments served not only as physical attire but as a visible marker of their covenant relationship with God and their distinct identity as His chosen people. Thus, fashion in this context acted as a communal expression of faith and devotion, indicating that the way one dresses and presents oneself can reflect one’s commitment to the community and the values it upholds.
Furthermore, the New Testament continues this discourse on fashion by symbolizing the spiritual transformation that believers undergo. In Romans 13:14, for example, Paul urges believers to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ,” which implies adopting the characteristics and ethical behaviors associated with Him. This metaphor of “putting on” Christ suggests that one’s spiritual life and character should be as intentional and defining as the clothes one wears. Fashion, therefore, offers a profound window into the transformative journey of faith, emphasizing that true beauty stems from Christ-like virtues that shape one’s identity and interactions in a world often preoccupied with outward appearances. Ultimately, biblical fashion transcends mere clothing, urging followers to embody a lifestyle that is in reflection of divine principles and communal values.
The Inner vs. Outer Beauty
In biblical texts, the concept of fashion often transcends mere clothing and appearance, emphasizing the importance of inner beauty and character over external adornment. This reflects a broader spiritual principle that values the heart and intentions of a person rather than their outward presentation. The Bible encourages believers to cultivate virtues such as kindness, humility, and love, which are seen as more significant than any physical attire.
Cultural Identity and Distinction
Fashion in the Bible can also signify cultural identity and the distinctions between different groups. Clothing and adornment often reflect societal norms, roles, and the covenant relationship between God and His people. For instance, specific garments were prescribed for priests, symbolizing their unique role and responsibilities. This aspect of fashion serves to highlight the importance of community and belonging, as well as the ways in which individuals express their faith and values through their attire.
The Transience of Earthly Things
Another broader meaning of fashion in the Bible relates to the transient nature of earthly possessions and appearances. The Bible often reminds believers that material things, including clothing and fashion, are temporary and should not be the focus of one’s life. This perspective encourages a mindset that prioritizes eternal values and spiritual growth over the fleeting trends of the world, urging individuals to invest in their relationship with God rather than in superficial appearances.
How to Embrace Modesty for Inner Spiritual Growth
Embracing modesty is a beautiful journey that goes beyond just our outward appearance; it’s about cultivating a heart that reflects humility and grace. As you seek to grow spiritually, consider modesty as a way to honor not only yourself but also God and those around you. Start by reflecting on your intentions—what drives your choices in clothing, speech, and behavior? When you align your actions with the values of kindness, respect, and love, you create a space for inner peace and spiritual growth. Remember, modesty is not merely about what you wear, but about how you carry yourself in the world. It’s about letting your character shine through, allowing your faith to be the guiding light that influences your interactions. As you practice modesty, you’ll find that it fosters deeper connections with others and draws you closer to God, nurturing a spirit that is both humble and radiant.
Bible References to the Meaning of Fashion:
Genesis 3:21: 21 And the Lord God made for Adam and for his wife garments of skins and clothed them.
Exodus 28:2-4: 2 And you shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother, for glory and for beauty.
3 You shall speak to all the skillful, whom I have filled with a spirit of skill, that they make Aaron’s garments to consecrate him for my priesthood.
4 These are the garments that they shall make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a coat of checker work, a turban, and a sash. They shall make holy garments for Aaron your brother and his sons to serve me as priests.
Exodus 28:40-43: 40 “For Aaron’s sons you shall make coats and sashes and caps. You shall make them for glory and beauty.
41 And you shall put them on Aaron your brother, and on his sons with him, and shall anoint them and ordain them and consecrate them, that they may serve me as priests.
42 You shall make for them linen undergarments to cover their naked flesh. They shall reach from the hips to the thighs;
43 They shall be on Aaron and on his sons when they go into the tent of meeting or when they come near the altar to minister in the Holy Place, lest they bear guilt and die. This shall be a statute forever for him and for his offspring after him.
Leviticus 19:19: 19 “You shall keep my statutes. You shall not let your cattle breed with a different kind. You shall not sow your field with two kinds of seed, nor shall you wear a garment of cloth made of two kinds of material.
Deuteronomy 22:5: 5 “A woman shall not wear a man’s garment, nor shall a man put on a woman’s cloak, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord your God.
2 Samuel 1:24: 24 “You daughters of Israel, weep over Saul, who clothed you luxuriously in scarlet, who put ornaments of gold on your apparel.”
2 Kings 1:8: 8 They answered him, “He wore a garment of hair, with a belt of leather about his waist.” And he said, “It is Elijah the Tishbite.”
2 Kings 10:22: 22 He said to him who was in charge of the wardrobe, “Bring out the vestments for all the worshipers of Baal.” So he brought out the vestments for them.
Esther 2:12-13: 12 Now when the turn came for each young woman to go in to King Ahasuerus, after being twelve months under the regulations for the women, since this was the regular period of their beautifying, six months with oil of myrrh and six months with spices and ointments for women.
13 Then in this way the girl came to the king: whatever she desired was given her to go with her from the harem to the king’s palace.
Isaiah 3:16-24: 16 The Lord said: Because the daughters of Zion are haughty and walk with outstretched necks, glancing wantonly with their eyes, mincing along as they go, tinkling with their feet,
17 therefore the Lord will strike with a scab the heads of the daughters of Zion, and the Lord will lay bare their secret parts.
18 In that day the Lord will take away the finery of the anklets, the headbands, and the crescents;
19 the festal robes, the mantles, the cloaks, and the handbags;
20 the headdresses, the armlets, the sashes, the perfume boxes, and the amulets;
21 the signet rings and the nose rings;
22 the festal robes, the mantles, the cloaks, and the handbags;
23 who make their anklets jingle, and disclose the amulets under their veils;
24 Instead of perfume there will be rottenness; and instead of a belt, a rope; and instead of well-set hair, baldness; and instead of a rich robe, a skirt of sackcloth; and branding instead of beauty.
Ezekiel 16:10-13: 10 I clothed you also with embroidered cloth and shod you with fine leather. I wrapped you in fine linen and covered you with silk.
11 And I adorned you with ornaments and put bracelets on your wrists and a chain on your neck.
12 And I put a ring on your nose and earrings in your ears and a beautiful crown on your head.
13 Thus you were adorned with gold and silver, and your clothing was of fine linen and silk and embroidered cloth. You ate fine flour and honey and oil. You grew exceedingly beautiful and advanced to royalty.
Matthew 6:28-30: 28 And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin,
29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
Matthew 23:5: 5 They do all their deeds to be seen by others. For they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long,
Luke 12:22-23: 22 And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on.
23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing.
1 Timothy 2:9-10: 9 likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire,
10 but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works.
1 Peter 3:3-4: 3 Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—
3 Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—
Rev. François Dupont is a dedicated church minister with a wealth of experience in serving spiritual communities. With a calm and serene demeanor, he has been devoted to sharing the message of love, compassion, and tolerance for over two decades. Through his thoughtful sermons, compassionate counseling, and unwavering support, Rev. Dupont has touched the lives of countless individuals, allowing them to find solace and strength during difficult times. His serene presence and deep understanding of the human condition make him a trusted guide for those seeking spiritual nourishment and guidance.