שַׂק

The Hebrew term *saq* refers to a rough textile, usually made from goat hair, which had a wide semantic range in ancient Israel. Its primary uses involved practical applications like making bags or containers for grain and other goods. However, its most prominent biblical usage is symbolic. The coarse, uncomfortable nature of sackcloth made it a suitable garment to express deep sorrow, repentance, and self-abasement before God. It was often worn in times of national crisis, personal grief, or sincere prayer, and frequently accompanied by other acts of humility like fasting or sitting in ashes. The act of wearing sackcloth was a public demonstration of an internal state of humility, indicating a recognition of sin or a plea for divine mercy. Its association with repentance is evident when kings and even entire cities would don sackcloth in response to prophetic warnings. It serves as a visual and tactile metaphor for extreme distress and supplication. The use of sackcloth in mourning rituals is well-attested, signaling a profound sense of loss and grief. This symbolic usage of sackcloth is consistently presented throughout the Old Testament, making it a powerful image of human brokenness and reliance on God's grace.