King James Version
What Does Isaiah 3:20 Mean?
“The bonnets, and the ornaments of the legs, and the headbands, and the tablets , and the earrings, tablets: Heb. houses of the soul”
Context
18
In that day the Lord will take away the bravery of their tinkling ornaments about their feet, and their cauls, and their round tires like the moon, cauls: or, networks
19
The chains, and the bracelets, and the mufflers, chains: or, sweet balls mufflers: or, spangled ornaments
20
The bonnets, and the ornaments of the legs, and the headbands, and the tablets , and the earrings, tablets: Heb. houses of the soul
21
The rings, and nose jewels,
22
The changeable suits of apparel, and the mantles, and the wimples, and the crisping pins,
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(20) **The bonnets **. . .—The English word is perhaps, too modern in its associations, and should be replaced by “diadems” (Exodus 39:28; Isaiah 61:10).
**The ornaments of the legs.**—These were chains connecting the anklets of Isaiah 3:18, and so regulating the “mincing” or “tripping” motion of the wearer.
**The headbands.**—Better, *girdles, *always the most highly ornamented part of an Eastern dress, such as were worn by brides (Jeremiah 2:32; Isaiah 49:18).
**The tablets.**—Literally, *houses of the soul*—*i.e., *of the spirit or essence of a perfume. These seem to have been of the nature of *scent-bottles, *or the modern vinaigrettes.
**The earrings.**—The noun is connected with the idea of enchantments. Better, *amulets *or *charms, *such as are worn in the East as safeguards against the evil eye.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Isaiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Isaiah 3:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Isaiah 3:20
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge