Bible Dictionary
SHEEP-SHEARING
Sheep-shearing was the springtime removal of wool from a flock, often performed by owners or hired shearers. In biblical narratives it was also associated with feasting and significant events.
Definition
Sheep-shearing is the springtime removal of wool from a flock. It could be performed by the owners or by regular shearers and was carefully done so that the fleece remained whole. Sheep-shearing was also associated with special houses and with festive or significant occasions.
Biblical Usage
Biblical narratives mention sheep-shearing in connection with the households of Jacob, Judah, Nabal, and others. The time of shearing forms the setting for important events and is used in imagery concerning silent submission.
Historical Background
Ancient sheep were distinguished by spots rather than brands. Lime or dye was painted on the wool as a mark. Mesha of Moab is described as a sheep-master, literally a sheep spotter.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>shep'-sher-ing: The sheep-shearing is done in the springtime, either by the owners (Ge 31:19; 38:13; De 15:19; 1Sa 25:2,4) or by regular "shearers" (gazaz) (1Sa 25:7,11; Isa 53:7). There were special houses for this work in Old Testament times (2Ki 10:12,14). The shearing was carefully done so as to keep the fleece whole (Jud 6:37). The sheep of a flock are not branded but spotted. Lime or some dyestuff is painted in one or more spots on the wool of the back as a distinguishing mark. In 2Ki 3:4, Mesha, the chief or sheikh of Moab, was a sheep-master, literally, "a sheep spotter."</p><p>James A. Patch</p>