Cloak

The cloak in biblical antiquity was the outer garment worn over the tunic, typically a large square of woolen cloth used both as daytime clothing and as a nighttime covering. Hebrew terms translated as cloak include me'il (the robe or mantle of distinction worn by priests, prophets, and nobles) and addereth (a large outer garment). The prophet's cloak carried special significance: Elijah's mantle, falling on Elisha at his ascension, symbolized the transfer of prophetic authority (2 Kings 2:13).

In the Law, a cloak taken as pledge was to be returned by nightfall, since the poor man slept in it (Exodus 22:26–27). Saul tore Samuel's me'il in 1 Samuel 15:27, and Samuel interpreted this act as the tearing of the kingdom from Saul. In the New Testament, Jesus instructs his disciples not to resist one who takes the tunic but to offer the cloak as well (Matthew 5:40), exemplifying radical generosity. Paul, writing from prison, asks Timothy to bring the cloak he left at Troas (2 Timothy 4:13).