Easton's Bible Dictionary: M. G. Easton, M.A., D.D.

Girdle

1. Heb.hagor, a girdle of any kind worn by soldiers (1 Sam. 18:4; 2 Sam. 20:8; 1 Ki. 2:5; 2 Ki. 3:21) or women (Isa. 3:24).
2. Heb.'ezor, something "bound," worn by prophets (2 Ki. 1:8; Jer. 13:1), soldiers (Isa. 5:27; 2 Sam. 20:8; Ezek. 23:15), Kings (Job 12:18).
3. Heb.mezah, a "band," a girdle worn by men alone (Ps. 109:19; Isa. 22:21).
4. Heb.'abnet, the girdle of sacerdotal and state officers (Ex. 28:4, 39, 40, 29:9, 39:29).
5. Heb.hesheb, the "curious girdle" (Ex. 28:8; R.V., "cunningly woven band") was attached to the ephod, and was made of the same material.

The common girdle was made of leather (2 Ki. 1:8; Mt. 3:4); a finer sort of linen (Jer. 13:1; Ezek. 16:10; Dan. 10:5). Girdles of sackcloth were worn in token of sorrow (Isa. 3:24, 22:12). They were variously fastened to the wearer (Mk. 1:6; Jer. 13:1; Ezek. 16:10).

The girdle was a symbol of strength and power (Job 12:18, 21, 30:11; Isa. 22:21, 45:5). "Righteousness and faithfulness" are the girdle of the Messiah (Isa. 11:5).

Girdles were used as purses or pockets (Mt. 10:9. A. V., "purses;" R.V., marg., "girdles." Also Mk. 6:8).