Deuteronomy 22:11
Thou shalt not wear a garment of divers sorts, as of woollen and linen together.
Original Language Analysis
לֹ֤א
H3808
לֹ֤א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 6
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
תִלְבַּשׁ֙
Thou shalt not wear
H3847
תִלְבַּשׁ֙
Thou shalt not wear
Strong's:
H3847
Word #:
2 of 6
properly, wrap around, i.e., (by implication) to put on a garment or clothe (oneself, or another), literally or figuratively
שַֽׁעַטְנֵ֔ז
a garment of divers sorts
H8162
שַֽׁעַטְנֵ֔ז
a garment of divers sorts
Strong's:
H8162
Word #:
3 of 6
linsey-woolsey, i.e., cloth of linen and wool carded and spun together
Historical Context
This law governed daily dress for ancient Israel preparing to enter Canaan. Archaeological evidence shows wool-linen mixtures in Egyptian textiles and Canaanite religious contexts. The prohibition created constant, tangible reminders of covenant distinctiveness—even getting dressed in the morning involved remembering one's identity as God's holy people. These laws made it virtually impossible for an Israelite to forget their covenant obligations, embedding theology into everyday routines.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you cultivate constant awareness of your identity as God's holy people set apart from the world's values?
- What contemporary equivalents exist to these boundary laws that remind believers of their distinct calling and separation from worldly compromise?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Thou shalt not wear a garment of divers sorts, as of woollen and linen together—Sha'atnez (divers sorts/mixed fabrics) specifically prohibits wool-linen blend. Leviticus 19:19 gives the parallel law. Why this prohibition? It may symbolize separation from Egyptian and Canaanite practices where mixed fabrics appeared in priestly or magical contexts. More fundamentally, it taught respect for God's created boundaries—don't confuse categories God distinguished.
The high priest's garments included linen and wool (Exodus 39), suggesting this mixture was reserved for sacred service, forbidden in common use. The law constantly reminded Israel of distinctiveness and holiness in daily life. Jesus fulfills these ceremonial laws (Matthew 5:17); Christians are not bound by dietary or fabric regulations (Mark 7:19; Colossians 2:16-17), but the principle of holiness and separation from worldly compromise remains (Romans 12:1-2; 1 Peter 1:15-16; 1 John 2:15-17).