What is the difference between sackcloth and a hairshirt?

Sackcloth and a hairshirt are closely related, but not entirely identical concepts. Both terms describe coarse clothing associated with grief, repentance, and humility; however, "sackcloth" primarily refers to a rough fabric (like burlap), while a "hairshirt" specifically denotes a garment made of hair or coarse animal wool.

In biblical and Church Slavonic language, these terms are often used almost interchangeably. Yet understanding their more precise nuances helps us better grasp an ancient custom: a person experiencing deep sorrow or confessing sin before God would set aside everyday or festive attire and put on something simple, rough, and uncomfortable. This was a visible sign of an inward condition, not a way to earn God’s forgiveness.

What is sackcloth?

Sackcloth is a rough, inexpensive fabric similar to burlap. It was often made from goat hair; sacks, coverings, and simple garments were fashioned from such cloth. This connection to sacks and coarse textile lies at the very root of the word. In various Bible translations, it is typically rendered as "sackcloth."

Sackcloth was worn during times of personal mourning. Thus Jacob, upon receiving the news of Joseph’s supposed death, expressed his deep anguish not only through tears, but also with this traditional emblem of mourning.

“Then Jacob tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and mourned for his son many days.” Genesis 37:34

Therefore, sackcloth was not necessarily a specialized "penitential tunic." It could simply be coarse sacking or a garment made from it that a person put on in place of normal clothing. Its plain, uninviting nature conveyed: now is not the time for comfort, luxury, or self-exaltation.

What is a hairshirt?

A hairshirt (cilice) literally means a garment made of hair, particularly rough animal hair. In the broader Christian tradition, this term refers to a harsh, prickly shirt worn next to the skin as an act of self-discipline and mortification. Such clothing could irritate the skin, continually reminding the wearer of their need for humility.

The Bible does not always use the specific word "hairshirt," but it does describe the clothing of John the Baptist, which was made of camel’s hair. It is important, however, not to read into the text what it does not explicitly state: this attire testified to his simple, prophetic lifestyle, but the passage does not label it as an ascetic penitential practice.

“John’s clothes were made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey.” Matthew 3:4

Thus, the primary nuance of "hairshirt" lies in the material: hair, coarse wool, and prickliness. The term "sackcloth," on the other hand, emphasizes the coarse, sack-like fabric and its recognized social role as a garment of mourning.

Why they are often conflated

In ancient daily life, the boundary between these two could be quite fluid. The coarse material used for sacks was frequently woven from hair or coarse wool. Therefore, a piece of sackcloth could very well be a "hair" garment at the same time. Translators across different eras have also rendered these terms using various words: sackcloth, haircloth, burlap, or rough fleece.

In the biblical account of Nineveh, the inhabitants put on sackcloth in response to the gravity of God's warning. Yet what truly mattered was not the rough cloth on their bodies, but the genuine transformation of their conduct.

“The Ninevites believed God. A fast was proclaimed, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth.” Jonah 3:5

God looks for a transformed heart, not outward austerity

Sackcloth, fasting, weeping, or plain attire can be sincere expressions of grief. However, they become empty rituals if a person does not turn away from sin. The Lord calls us not to a theatrical display of piety, but to a genuine return to Him.

“‘Even now,’ declares the Lord, ‘return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.’ Rend your heart and not your garments.” Joel 2:12-13

Ellen White repeatedly emphasized that true repentance involves sorrow for sin, confession of guilt, and a real turning away from it. A Christian does not obtain forgiveness through self-inflicted suffering, uncomfortable garments, or any outward rigorous feat. Forgiveness is a free gift of God’s grace, received by faith in Jesus Christ.

Conclusion and practical application

In summary, sackcloth is primarily a coarse, burlap-like fabric or a garment made from it, whereas a hairshirt is a rough garment made specifically of hair or wool, often intended to be worn next to the skin. In the biblical context, both images speak of mourning, humility, and repentance.

The practical lesson for us is not to seek out a literal modern "hairshirt." When we realize our sin, we are called to honestly name it before God, ask for His forgiveness, turn away from the wrong path, and, whenever possible, make restitution. May our humility be more than an outward sign—let it be, above all, a true transformation of heart and life.