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Diadem (Diadema, Crown, Ornamental Headband)
Meaning
The word diadem comes from the Greek word “diadema” which meant crown, ornamental head covering or band. Diadems or crowns were a symbol of honor, authority and power. They were worn by rulers and kings alike. And though the word diadem specifically means crown or headband, the word became synonymous with any type of head covering used to signify authority. In addition the word is used many times throughout the Bible in all types of scripture. The original word was used to signify a ribbon tied around the head. However, over time it came to signify a crown worn by those with authority.
Throughout the Bible its common usage is as a crown of authority. Historically diadems could be worn by local rulers, kings, queens and priests. However, in some cases, they were temporarily worn by those the king wished to honor. As we see in the case of Mordecai in the book of Esther. An interesting historical note, Alexander the Great and his successors adopted the diadem as a symbol of power. However the Romans in order to continue their legal function and avoid outright claims of royalty did not wear crowns. It wasn’t until the emperor Constantine that Roman emperors wore diadems.
“You shall put the turban on his head, and put the holy crown on the turban.” (Book of Exodus 29:6)
“You shall also be a crown of glory In the hand of the Lord, And a royal diadem In the hand of your God.” (Book of Isaiah 62:3)
“The couriers who rode on royal horses went out, hastened and pressed on by the king’s command. And the decree was issued in Shushan the citadel. So Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal apparel of blue and white, with a great crown of gold and a garment of fine linen and purple; and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad. The Jews had light and gladness, joy and honor.” (Book of Esther 8:14-16)
“Then I stood on the sand of the sea. And I saw a beast rising up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and on his horns ten crowns, and on his heads a blasphemous name.” (Book of Revelation 13:1)
“Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself. He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses.” (Book of Revelation 19:11-14)