Free Online Bible Library | Shaving

We also have classes for:

Small Groups, Church Leaders, and Pastors.

BiblicalTraining.org provides a comprehensive biblical education from world-class professors
to encourage spiritual growth in the church, for free.

Would you do us the favor of answering this two question poll so we can know how to serve you better? You will also be given the opportunity to join our team tasked with how to make BiblicalTraining.org better. Thank you.  --Bill Mounce

Search

Shaving

The main Biblical implications of shaving are as follows:

Cleansing.

Joseph, when summoned to Pharaoh’s presence, may have shaved his whole body to conform to Egyptian ideas of cleanliness (Gen 41:14). The same concept appears in the ritual that marked the leper’s recovery (Lev 14:8f.) and the Levite’s consecration to service (Num 8:7), and it is indicated in Isaiah’s figure (Isa 7:20).

Mourning.

Examples are found in Deuteronomy 21:12; Job 1:20; and Jeremiah 7:29.

Vows.

Shaving of the head followed the fulfillment of a vow (Num 6:18; Acts 18:18; 21:24); but for Samson to submit to haircutting was to renounce the divine purpose for his life (Judg 16:19).

Contempt

was expressed by Hanun’s ungracious action (2 Sam 10:4; 1 Chron 19:4).

Humiliation.

a consequence of a Corinthian woman having her hair cut off (1 Cor 11:5, 6).

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (1915)

Shaving "with a razor that is hired" is Isaiah’s graphic figure to denote the complete devastation of Judah by the Assyrian army (Isa 7:20).

Biblical Training

The BiblicalTraining app gives you access to 2,100 hours of instruction (129 classes and seminars). Stream the classes, or download and listen to them offline. Share classes via social media, email, and more.

Google Play Download
Apple App Store Download