Necktie Hazard (2 Samuel 18:9)

A recent article published in the medical journal Neuroradiology offered an intriguing analysis of men who wear neckties. The study compared two groups of men, one wearing neckties and one without. A baseline MRI measuring cerebral blood flow was obtained for both groups. Following the measurement, the group wearing the neckties had their shirt collars closed and the necktie tightened into a standard Windsor knot, followed by another MRI. Finally, the neckties were loosened with collar buttons opened, and a final MRI was taken. In 13 of the 15 necktie subjects, the blood flow to the brain decreased by an average of 7.5%. The study concluded that it may be important to study any immediate or long-term cognitive effects, and equally important, that doctors should consider not wearing neckties!

Source. Neuroradiology; 2018;60 (August): 861-864.

 

Neckties have been a part of our fashion ensembles since the 17th century. Four centuries is a long time for a fashion trend to remain, but before this latest medical study, many have questioned the merit and potential health hazards of wearing a noose around one’s neck. This study confirms that we need to be cautious with our attire.

 

Now in all Israel there was no one so much to be praised for his handsome appearance as Absalom. From the sole of his foot to the crown of his head there was no blemish in him. And when he cut the hair of his head (for at the end of every year he used to cut it; when it was heavy on him, he cut it), he weighed the hair of his head, two hundred shekels by the king’s weight.

2 Samuel 14:25-26 (ESV)

 

When I think of fashions that may lead to physical harm, I think of King David’s firstborn son, Absalom, and his glorious head of hair. The Bible records the tragic tale of how Absalom rebelled against his father, attempting to usurp his kingdom. Hunted down by David’s top military commanders, Absalom was on the run when his beautiful, luxurious hair was caught in a low-hanging tree. 

 

Now Absalom happened to meet David’s men. He was riding his mule, and as the mule went under the thick branches of a large oak, Absalom’s hair got caught in the tree. He was left hanging in midair, while the mule he was riding kept on going.

2 Samuel 18:9 (NIV)

 

When he was discovered, he was impaled and killed by David’s commanders. Fashionable attire and appearances can be hazardous to one’s health!

 

I always marvel at how the Bible can insert seemingly minute pieces of historical information that have immediate relevance for the modern world. Spanning thousands of years, the riches of God’s Word never cease to impress upon me the timely relevance of His Wisdom. 

 

Praise God!

 

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.