King James Version
What Does Isaiah 3:22 Mean?
“The changeable suits of apparel, and the mantles, and the wimples, and the crisping pins,”
Context
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,
23
The glasses, and the fine linen, and the hoods, and the vails.
24
And it shall come to pass, that instead of sweet smell there shall be stink; and instead of a girdle a rent; and instead of well set hair baldness; and instead of a stomacher a girding of sackcloth; and burning instead of beauty.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(22) **The changeable suits of apparel.**—Better, *state, *or *festal, dresses. *The word is used in Zechariah 3:4, of the high priest’s garments, “gold and blue, and purple, and fine linen” (Exodus 28:6).
**The mantles.**—Better, *tunics. *The uppermost of the two garments, commonly richly embroidered.
**Wimples.**—The obsolete English word describes accurately enough the large *shawl, *like a Scotch plaid, worn over the tunic, as in the “vail” worn by Ruth (Ruth 4:15).
**The crisping pins.**—Better, *purses *(2Kings 5:23), the small embroidered bags, or reticules, attached to the girdles. The girdle itself was used as a purse by men. This was a refinement of female luxury.
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 3:22 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.