Isaiah 3:17 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 3:17 mean?

Isaiah 3:17 says that the Lord will punish the women of Jerusalem by causing sores on their heads and exposing their private parts. This is a warning of shame and humiliation as a consequence for their pride and behavior.

In this verse, Isaiah is speaking to the people of Jerusalem, specifically addressing the "daughters of Zion," which refers to the women of the city. The context is a prophecy where God, through Isaiah, warns of coming judgment because the people have become arrogant and self-indulgent. The verse uses physical imagery—scabs on the head and exposure—to symbolize deep disgrace and the loss of dignity that will come as a result of their actions.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 3:17

• "Lord" (אֲדֹנָי, 'Adonai', H136) and "LORD" (יְהוָה, YHWH, H3068) both appear, showing a strong emphasis that this judgment comes directly from God, using both a title of authority and God's personal name.
• "Scab" (פֹּה, pōh, H5596) refers to a physical sore or wound, highlighting the concrete and humiliating nature of the punishment.
• "Discover" (עָרָה, 'arah, H6168) means to uncover or expose, stressing the idea of public shame, not just physical harm.
• "Parts" (פֶּתַח, petach, H6596) points to private areas, making clear that the exposure is meant to be deeply humiliating in the cultural context.

Why Isaiah 3:17 matters

• Isaiah 3:17 clears up that the judgment is not just spiritual or symbolic, but involves real, public humiliation, which would have been especially shameful in ancient Israelite society.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by showing that the pride and vanity of Jerusalem’s women are not overlooked; their actions have visible, serious consequences.
• Understanding the specific Hebrew words helps reveal the intensity of the warning—this is not just about physical suffering, but about a loss of honor and respect in the community.