UBS Dictionary of the Greek New Testament

Sense 1: to tear, to rip

Semantic entry: 19.32

Semantic domains: Physical Impact

Subdomains: Split, Tear

Definition: to tear or rip in two (as of clothing){N:001}

Notes: In the NT tearing of clothing was a symbol of horror associated with sacrilege. In many cultures, however, the tearing of clothing may be associated only with insanity. It may therefore be important to add a phrase in describing ‘the tearing of clothing’ in order to mark the significance, for example, ‘to show horror’ (RV MAT 26:65 · LV MAT 26:65 · Read together MAT 26:65, RV ACT 14:14 · LV ACT 14:14 · Read together ACT 14:14) and in the OT ‘to show mourning’ (RV GEN 37:34 · LV GEN 37:34 · Read together GEN 37:34, RV JDG 11:35 · LV JDG 11:35 · Read together JDG 11:35).