What is a cloak?

[Peggy Gray]

Is there a difference in design between the "cloak" that Jacob gave Joseph and the "cloak" that Potiphar's wife ended up with when Joseph ran away? I keep finding different definitions for "cloak". In illustrations, I see Joseph's "cloak of many colors" shown as a robe or long jacket of some type. In illustrations showing Joseph in Potiphar's house, I see his "cloak" shown as a robe, a wrap-and-tuck garment of some kind, a sleeveless tunic, and other variations. Are there two different terms both being translated as "cloak"? There must be a website that defines these things, but I sure can't find it this afternoon. Thanks for any suggestions or references.

[Dave McClung]

Is there a difference in design between the "cloak" that Jacob gave Joseph and the "cloak" that Potiphar's wife ended up with when Joseph ran away? I keep finding different definitions for "cloak". In illustrations, I see Joseph's "cloak of many colors" shown as a robe or long jacket of some type. In illustrations showing Joseph in Potiphar's house, I see his "cloak" shown as a robe, a wrap-and-tuck garment of some kind, a sleeveless tunic, and other variations. Are there two different terms both being translated as "cloak"? There must be a website that defines these things, but I sure can't find it this afternoon. Thanks for any suggestions or references.

I doubt that anyone can answer your question with confidence, but I will share my thoughts. Whether a garment is a "coat" or a "cloak" depends on its purpose. A "coat" provides warmth and protection from the elements. A "cloak" provides privacy. Of course, one garment might fulfill both purposes. .