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,

ISAIAH 3:18KJV
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Isaiah 3:18 (KJV)

What does Isaiah 3:18 mean?

Isaiah 3:18 says that God will take away the beautiful and fancy jewelry and accessories the women of Jerusalem wore, including their ankle ornaments, headbands, and crescent-shaped jewelry. This is part of a warning that their outward displays of wealth and pride will be stripped away as judgment comes.

The prophet Isaiah is speaking to the people of Jerusalem and Judah, describing what will happen "in that day" when God brings consequences for their arrogance and self-indulgence. The verse lists specific items of adornment to show how even the most personal and prized possessions will be lost, highlighting the seriousness of the coming judgment.

The Hebrew behind Isaiah 3:18

  • "day" (יוֹם, yom): This word points to a specific time of reckoning or judgment, not just any ordinary day.
  • "Lord" (אֲדֹנָי, Adonai): This title emphasizes God's authority and power to act as judge over His people.
  • "bravery" (תִּפְאֶרֶת, tif'eret): Often means "beauty" or "splendor," showing that what is being removed is not just jewelry, but the pride and glory attached to it.
  • "ornaments" (עֲכָסִים, akasim): These are ankle jewelry, a detail that shows the level of luxury and attention to appearance.
  • "cauls" (שְׁבִיסִים, shevisim): Likely refers to decorative headbands or nets for the hair, another sign of wealth.
  • "moon" (שָׂהֲרוֹנִים, saharonim): Refers to crescent-shaped ornaments, probably jewelry shaped like the moon, which were fashionable and possibly carried symbolic meaning.

Why Isaiah 3:18 matters

  • Isaiah 3:18 clears up that the judgment is not just about general hardship, but specifically targets the pride and luxury that had become central in Jerusalem's society.
  • The verse emphasizes that even personal and cherished items, which people might think are secure, can be lost when a society turns away from what is right.
  • This verse connects to the larger passage by showing that God's judgment is thorough and reaches into the daily lives and values of the people, not just their public actions.