Baldness

From natural causes was uncommon (2 Kings 2:23; Isa. 3:24). It was included apparently under “scab” and “scurf,” which disqualified for the priesthood (Lev. 21:20). The Egyptians were rarely subject to it. This probably arose from their custom of constantly shaving the head, only allowing the hair to grow as a sign of mourning. With the Jews artificial baldness was a sign of mourning (Isa. 22:12; Jer. 7:29; 16:6); it also marked the conclusion of a Nazarite’s vow (Acts 18:18; 21:24; Num. 6:9). It is often alluded to (Micah 1:16; Amos 8:10; Jer. 47:5). The Jews were forbidden to follow the customs of surrounding nations in making themselves bald (Deut. 14:1).

Natural baldness seems to have been uncommon, since it exposed people to public derision. (Leviticus 13:29; 2 Kings 2:23; Isaiah 3:24; 15:2; Jeremiah 47:5; Ezekiel 7:18) Artificial baldness marked the conclusion of a Nazarite’s vow, (Numbers 6:9; Acts 18:18) and was a sign of mourning.

BALD'NESS, when voluntary, was a token of mourning and great distress, Isa 3:24; Eze 7:18, or else showed the conclusion of a Nazarite's vow. Num 6:9. Natural baldness seems to have been uncommon. "Bald head" was a cry of contempt, 2 Kgs 2:23, because it was generally caused by leprosy. Lev 13:40-43. The people, and especially the priests, were forbidden to make themselves bald, since this was a heathen custom. Lev 21:5; Deut 14:1; Eze 44:20.

BALD'NESS, when voluntary, was a token of mourning and great distress, Isa 3:24; Eze 7:18, or else showed the conclusion of a Nazarite's vow. Num 6:9. Natural baldness seems to have been uncommon. "Bald head" was a cry of contempt, 2 Kgs 2:23, because it was generally caused by leprosy. Lev 13:40-43. The people, and especially the priests, were forbidden to make themselves bald, since this was a heathen custom. Lev 21:5; Deut 14:1; Eze 44:20.

Part of speech: noun (n.)

The state or condition of being bald; as, baldness of the head; baldness of style. This gives to their syntax a peculiar character of simplicity and baldness. W. D. Whitney.