What Did Jesus Wear? Learn From The Bible!

As Christians, we know that Jesus is the perfect example to follow in every way. He was sinless, and He died so that we could have eternal life.

But what about the details of His life? What can we learn from the way He lived day to day? The Bible doesn’t give us a lot of information about what Jesus wore, but we can learn a few things from the few references we do have.

So if you’re wondering what Jesus wore, here’s what we know from the Bible!

What Are The Possible Clothes Jesus Wore?

While there is much debate as to what type of clothes Jesus wore, many believe that he likely wore simple, plain clothing befitting his station in life.

These garments may have been made from linen or wool as were commonly worn during this time period.

Did Jesus wear a tunic?

A tunic is likely the garment Jesus wore most often. This was a simple, knee-length garment that was worn by all classes of people in ancient Israel.

In the first century, tunics were typically made of a single rectangle of cloth, which was folded in half and sewn together on the sides. They were generally belted at the waist and had loose-fitting sleeves.

In the Gospel according to Mark (Mark 6:9), when Jesus gives instructions to His disciples, He tells them “but to wear sandals and not put on two tunics.” Although this verse doesn’t specifically say that Jesus wore a tunic, it does suggest that the garment was common and would have been likely what He wore.

Extra info: At that time, tunics could be dyed in various colors, but for the most part they were undyed, since most people couldn’t afford the cost of dyeing their clothes.

Did Jesus wear sandals?

Yes. If you look at Mark 6:9 again, you will see that Jesus specifically tells His disciples to wear sandals.

Again, in the first century, sandals were a very common form of footwear and would have been worn by everyone, from the poorest to the wealthiest people.

Sandals were made from leather and were relatively simple in design, consisting of straps or laces that tied around the ankle or foot.

In Matthew 3:11, John the Baptist says “I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.”

This verse is a clear indication that Jesus wore sandals, but it also shows the reverence John had for Him.

How Was Jesus Dressed In The Bible?

We can start by seeing how He was dressed over the full course of His life.

Jesus was born in Bethlehem to a poor family, so His clothes would have been simple even as a baby.

1. The Clothes Jesus Wore As A Baby

In Luke 2:12, we see that Jesus was wrapped in “swaddling cloths” when He was born. The word “swaddling” is derived from an old English word that means “to wrap tightly”, and these cloths were used to wrap a baby in order to keep them warm and secure.

This type of clothing would have been similar to a long blanket that would have been wrapped around Jesus’ body and then tied with string or other fabric.

We can only make assumptions to the type of “swaddling cloths” Jesus wore, but given the fact that He was born to a poor family, it is likely the fabric used would have been simple and inexpensive.

2. The Clothes Christ Wore Before His Crusifixion

When Jesus got arrested by the Roman soldiers, the Bible states that they put a “purple robe” on him. This was likely a royal-style garment that was meant to mock Jesus and mock His claim to be the King of the Jews.

In addition to this robe, Jesus wore a “crown” made of thorns that was given to Him in mockery.

This would have been a very uncomfortable outfit, and it was likely meant to humiliate Jesus before His trial and crucifixion.

That said, it does not appear that Jesus wore any other clothes before his crucifixion, suggesting that the robe was His only garment.

3. After His Death (Before Resurrection)

After Jesus was crucified, He was buried in a linen cloth. In Luke 23:50-52, we read that Joseph of Arimathea took Jesus’ body and “wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,” and then laid it in a tomb.

This burial cloth was likely white, and would have been made of a lightweight cotton or linen fabric. It would have been a single rectangle of cloth, folded over Jesus’ body in a way that covered Him completely.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Did Jesus Look Like?

The physical characteristics of Jesus have been the cause of much debate throughout history.

While there are many differing opinions about what Jesus may have looked like, some general consensus can be found.

It is generally accepted that Jesus was a man of average height with dark brown skin and shoulder-length hair.

Jesus being a Middle-Eastern man, it is likely that He had a beard too, as all icons and paintings suggest.

What Did Jesus Wear on His Head?

It is believed that Jesus wore a woven crown of thorns when He was crucified by Pontius Pilate.

This act of humiliation is significant as it demonstrates how far humanity has strayed from God’s leading.

The crown of thorns, woven of fragrant plants native to the Middle East and known for its sharp thorns, symbolizes pain and suffering on the part of Jesus.

The symbolism continues further as it also serves to demonstrate a reminder that He chose to endure suffering in order to secure salvation and redemption for us all.

What Color Robe Did Jesus Wear?

The purple robe that Jesus wore before His crucifixion is widely believed to be a royal-style garment.

This color was used as a sign of royalty and mockery of Jesus’ claims to be King of the Jews.

Final Thoughts

This article has covered what we can learn from the Bible about Jesus’ clothing.

Even though there isn’t much information to go off, we can make assumptions about His clothing based on the contexts in which it is mentioned.

For example, it seems likely that Jesus’ clothes would have been simple and inexpensive given His family’s humble circumstances.

Overall, Jesus’ clothing serves as a powerful symbol of His humility and sacrifice. We can draw inspiration from this to follow in His footsteps and put others before ourselves, even if it means enduring pain and suffering.

Charalampos

Charalampos is an Orthodox Christian who wants to help others learn about Christianity. His main goal is to help people understand the Bible and how to apply its teachings in their everyday lives. He also enjoys spending time with his family, playing sports, and hiking.