SHAVING (גָּזַז, H1605, to cut off, shear usually of animals, but also of human beings [Job 1:20; Mic 1:16], and fig. [Jer 7:29; Nah 1:12]; גָּלַח, H1662, to shave; ξυράω, G3834). Probably like Absalom most Israelites generally allowed their hair to grow for a considerable time before cutting it (2 Sam 14:26). A beard was regarded as a natural accompaniment of manhood. The ceremonial law forbade priests to shave their heads on account of mourning (Lev 21:5) or to adopt long flowing hair for the same reason (Ezek 44:20). A Nazirite was not allowed to shave his head until the time covered by his vow expired (Num 6:5) unless because of accidental defilement (6:9). In regard to the vows of Samson and Samuel, lifelong consecration was intended (Judg 13:5; 1 Sam 1:11).

The main Biblical implications of shaving are as follows:

1. Cleansing. Joseph, when summoned to Pharaoh’s presence, may have shaved his whole body to conform to Egyptian ideas of cleanliness (Gen 41:14). The same concept appears in the ritual that marked the leper’s recovery (Lev 14:8f.) and the Levite’s consecration to service (Num 8:7), and it is indicated in Isaiah’s figure (Isa 7:20).

2. Mourning. Examples are found in Deuteronomy 21:12; Job 1:20; and Jeremiah 7:29.

3. Vows. Shaving of the head followed the fulfillment of a vow (Num 6:18; Acts 18:18; 21:24); but for Samson to submit to haircutting was to renounce the divine purpose for his life (Judg 16:19).

4. Contempt was expressed by Hanun’s ungracious action (2 Sam 10:4; 1 Chron 19:4).

5. Humiliation. a consequence of a Corinthian woman having her hair cut off (1 Cor 11:5, 6).