Background Information
A cloak is a long garment worn by people in the Bible, typically to keep warm, signify status or religious rank, or be used as a disguise. Cloaks first appear in the Bible in the book of Genesis, when Abraham’s servant retrieves his cloak filled with stones to use as a sacrifice to God. Cloaks are mentioned in the Bible multiple times and even appear as a central object in several biblical stories.
Mantle of Prophethood
The mantle of prophecy is a concept in the Bible that symbolizes the divine favor and protection of God upon His chosen prophets and priestly figures. In the Biblical tradition, a mantle of prophecy was a cloak worn only by those touched by God’s hand, signifying their closeness to Him and His trust in them. This mantle symbolized the power of God to give hope and peace to His chosen people, whether it was in the form of comfort, guidance, healing, or assurance of His presence.
Cloak of Concealment
In a few different stories, a cloak is used as a tool for concealment and deception. In the story of Jacob, the patriarch Jacob uses a cloak to pass himself off as his brother Esau and deceive his father, Isaac. In a scene from the book of Judges, the Judge Ehud uses a cloak to cover his weapon and deceive Eglon, the King of Moab. In both of these stories, the use of a cloak was an effective way to disguise or conceal the truth.
Joseph’s Cloak
The most famous cloak found in the Bible is the cloak given to Joseph by his father, Jacob. This cloak was the only token of recognition Jacob could offer to his son in the face of his impending death. The cloak was passed down through many generations and even served as protection and guidance for the Israelites during their time in Egypt. The story of Joseph’s cloak is a reminder of God’s ability to bring beauty out of crisis and sorrow.
Cloak of Protection
Throughout the Bible, a cloak is often used to represent the idea of protection. In the book of Ruth, Boaz offers his cloak to cover Ruth, offering her protection from danger and encouraging her faith in both God and her new husband. Similarly, in the book of Isaiah, God offers a cloak of salvation to those that are desperate for protection from a world of trouble.
Use of Cloaks Today
The use of a cloak in the Biblical tradition to represent faith and protection is still relevant today. Many Christian denominations use a garment representing a cloak during special services to signify the presence of the Holy Spirit and signify the sacredness of the event. Additionally, some churches offer cloaks to those in need of protection, allowing them to stay anonymous while engaging with the spiritual community.
Symbolic Meaning
A cloak in the Bible symbolizes the presence of God and the assurance of His protection over His people. The cloak can remind us of God’s presence in the midst of difficulty, protect us from danger, and identify us as people of His divine favor. It is a reminder of God’s unwavering love and provision for His people, and it can serve as a source of protection and comfort even in the most difficult of circumstances.
Conclusion
The cloak is a powerful symbol in the Bible. It serves as a reminder of the protection, comfort, and love of our Heavenly Father. Though it is no longer the garment of choice for kings and prophets, the cloak continues to represent the walls of love that God has constructed around His people. It is a symbol of faith, hope, and love, and will continue to be a source of strength and comfort for all believers.
