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Bible Encyclopedias
Flax
Kitto's Popular Cyclopedia of Biblical Literature
or From the numerous references to flax and linen, there is no doubt that the plant was extensively cultivated, not only in Egypt, but also in Palestine. As to Egypt we have proof in the mummy cloth being made of linen, and also in the representations of the flax cultivation in the paintings of the Grotto of el Kab, which represent the whole process with the utmost clearness; and numerous testimonies might be adduced from ancient authors, of the esteem in which the linen of Egypt was held. Flax continues to be extensively cultivated in the present day. That it was also much cultivated in Palestine, and well known to the Hebrews, we have proofs in the number of times it is mentioned; as in , where Rahab is described as concealing the two Hebrew spies with the stalks of flax which she had laid in order upon the roof. In several passages, as;;;;;; , we find it mentioned as forming different articles of clothing, as girdles, cords, and bands. In , the careful housewife 'seeketh wool and flax, and worketh it willingly with her hands.'
Public Domain.
Kitto, John, ed. Entry for 'Flax'. "Kitto's Popular Cyclopedia of Biblical Literature". https://www.studylight.org/encyclopedias/eng/kbe/f/flax.html.
