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The concept of Girdle in Christianity

The keyphrase "Girdle" carries various interpretations across different beliefs. In Christianity, it symbolizes truth and serves a practical purpose in supporting armor. Gnosticism views it as something a person is always girded with, akin to a curse. Eastern Orthodoxy links the girdle to a sense of order and self-identity. In Early Christianity, the girdle represents preparation and readiness for challenges, as exemplified by Thecla’s experience in the arena. Each context emphasizes different aspects of readiness and support.1
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Synonyms: Belt, Waistband, Strap

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Girdle'

Christianity Books

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository

(1) A belt used for support and to keep armor in place; symbolizes truth in a broader spiritual context.[1]

From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)

(1) A belt-like garment accessory worn around the waist, integral for securing other clothing, often used symbolically in phrases relating to readiness for action.[2]

From: A Cyclopedia of Biblical literature

(1) The girdle was a garment worn by priests and magistrates, crafted from fine twined linen, and colored with blue, purple, and scarlet, with needlework details.[3]

Significance in Eastern Orthodoxy (or the Eastern Orthodox Church):
Eastern Orthodoxy Books

From: The Works of Dionysius the Areopagite

(1) The girdles signify the guard over their productive powers, and the collected habit of being turned uniformly to It, and being drawn around Itself by an unbroken identity, in a well-ordered circle, representing order.[4]

Eastern Orthodoxy, or Byzantine Christianity, is one of the three main branches of Christianity. It consists of independently governed churches with strong cultural ties to Eastern and Southeastern Europe. Eastern Orthodox theology focuses on the Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Believers strive for theosis, or becoming closer to God, through grace and spiritual practices.  

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) This phrase describes the item Thecla received, highlighting the preparation for the arena, and emphasizing the challenges she must face in the arena.[5]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Significance in Global Christian community:
Catholic Church Books

From: Summa Theologica (English translation)

(1) The girdle is a vestment worn by all ministers, representing the restraint of the flesh, and is used in conjunction with other garments, like the alb.[6]

The Catholic Church is a global Christian community with over a billion members, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is led by the Pope and emphasizes the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist. Catholicism is a denomination centered on the teachings thereof. It has a rich theological and cultural heritage.

Gnostic concept of 'Girdle'

Gnosticism Books

Significance in Gnosticism (Mystical or Esoteric Christianity):

From: Pistis Sophia

(1) This is something with which a person shall ever be girded, like cursing.[7]

Plural form: Girdles.