Bible Dictionaries
Earrings

Holman Bible Dictionary

Ornaments worn in the ear by both men and women. Usually made of gold or silver, they represented valuable possessions and could be used as gifts (Genesis 24:22 , Genesis 24:47 ), even gifts to God (Exodus 32:2; Exodus 35:22; Numbers 31:50; Judges 8:24-26 ). In describing His loving relationship with Israel, God said He had put a ring in her nose and earrings on her ears (Ezekiel 16:12 ). Before returning to Bethel, Jacob got his family to put away their foreign gods and earrings (Genesis 35:2-4 ). These may have been magical apparel with engraving of words supposed to ward off evil. Compare Isaiah 3:20 in KJV (“earrings”) and NAS, NRSV (“amulets”), and NIV (“charms”). More ornamental than the finest gold earring, however, “is the wise reprover on an obedient ear” ( Proverbs 25:12 ). See Jewelry.