Shroud__Testimony_of_the_Cloth.mp4
Section 3- Linen Cloth Evidence.mp3
This topic provides a detailed examination of the physical characteristics and historical evidence related to the Shroud of Turin, emphasizing its linen cloth properties and ancient origins. It delves into the Shroud's precise dimensions, its unique three-to-one herringbone twill weave, and distinctive features like a seam and various damage patterns (including "poker holes" and burn marks from the 1532 fire), which offer clues about its past handling and storage. Crucially, the text presents compelling forensic evidence such as soil particles consistent with Jerusalem, and pollen analysis indicating the Shroud's presence in Palestine and Anatolia, strongly suggesting its antiquity and geographical journey. Furthermore, the discussion touches on less conclusive findings, like potential flower images and coin/symbol images, while stressing the need for further rigorous scientific validation.
The Shroud of Turin, a linen cloth believed by many to be the burial shroud of Jesus Christ, exhibits specific dimensions and unique weaving characteristics that offer insights into its potential age and origin.
The Shroud's post-2002 preservation dimensions are 14’ 6” x 3’ 9” (4.42 x 1.14 m). Prior to this, it was commonly measured at 14’ 3” x 3’ 7” (4.34 x 1.09 m). These are approximate measurements for an ancient cloth that has been extensively handled and manipulated. It is suggested that the original weaving specifications were more likely based on cubits, with an "8 cubits long x 2 cubits wide" measurement closely conforming to the ancient Assyrian cubit of approximately 21.7 inches (55.1 cm), which was used in Palestine in the first century (L1).
The linen Shroud cloth is nominally 0.014 inches (0.35 mm) thick, with threads of a mean diameter of 0.010 inches (0.25 mm). Each thread is composed of 70-120 linen fibers, with individual fibers measuring between 0.0004 and 0.0008 inches (0.010-0.020 mm) in diameter, smaller than a typical human hair. Measurements taken by physicist John Jackson during the STURP expedition in 1978 showed varying thicknesses across different parts of the Shroud, ranging from 313 to 391 microns (L2).