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capes
Capes were outer garments that provided warmth and protection from the elements. They were also a symbol of dignity and authority, often worn by those in positions of power. In the context ofIsaiah 3, the removal of capes signifies the loss of authority and the humbling of those who had placed their trust in their own status rather than in God. This imagery is consistent with the theme of divine judgment throughout the book of Isaiah, where God humbles the proud and exalts the humble.

cloaks
Cloaks were essential garments in the ancient Near East, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. They were used for warmth, as blankets, and even as collateral for loans (Exodus 22:26-27). The mention of cloaks in this passage underscores the comprehensive nature of the judgment that would come upon Judah. It suggests that even basic necessities would be taken away, leaving the people vulnerable and exposed. This reflects the broader biblical theme of reliance on God rather than material possessions for security and provision.

and purses
Purses, or bags, were used to carry money and valuables. In the context ofIsaiah 3, the mention of purses indicates the wealth and materialism that had become prevalent in Judah. The loss of purses symbolizes the impending economic downfall and the futility of relying on wealth for security. This aligns with the biblical principle that treasures on earth are temporary and can be easily lost (Matthew 6:19-21). The stripping away of purses serves as a reminder of the need to store up treasures in heaven, where they are secure and eternal.

“the fine robes” (Isaiah 3:22)

• In Scripture, ornate clothing often signals status and celebration (Genesis 37:3;Esther 6:8–9). For the “daughters of Zion,” these garments had become symbols of vanity rather than thanksgiving.

• God’s judgment strips away what fuels pride (Isaiah 3:16–17), just as He later tells the church in Laodicea to “buy from Me white garments, so that you may be clothed” (Revelation 3:18).

• True beauty is “the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit” (1 Peter 3:3-4), not the latest festival fashion.

“and capes” (Isaiah 3:22)

• A cape provided both warmth and outward show. The removal pictures God uncovering superficial defenses (Isaiah 22:8).

• Only the Lord’s protection endures. He promises, after judgment, to spread “a canopy of cloud by day and a glow of fire by night” over His remnant (Isaiah 4:5).

•Psalm 91:4 portrays the safest covering: “He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge.” Capes crafted by human pride cannot rival that shelter.

“the cloaks” (Isaiah 3:22)

• A cloak was the outermost garment, often indicating rank (1 Samuel 15:27;John 19:23-24). God’s stripping of cloaks signals loss of social prestige.

•Exodus 22:26-27 shows a cloak could be pledged by the poor; its confiscation here highlights how Judah’s elite misused blessings meant for basic need.

• Jesus later teaches generosity with cloaks: “Whoever has two tunics should share with him who has none” (Luke 3:11). Judah hoarded instead.

“and purses” (Isaiah 3:22)

• The word pictures an ornamental bag that held perfume or coins—portable luxury (Proverbs 7:17). God will empty it.

• Riches vanish swiftly: “Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone” (Proverbs 23:5).

• Christ urges, “Provide yourselves money bags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that fails not” (Luke 12:33). Judah trusted the wrong purse.

Isaiah 3:22 sits in a catalogue of ornaments God will remove from Jerusalem’s proud women. Each item—festive robes, capes, cloaks, purses—symbolizes a layer of self-exaltation the Lord exposes. He is not condemning beauty or clothing itself but the heart that relies on luxury instead of Him. The passage calls believers to modesty, generosity, and trust in God’s covering and treasure, for only what He supplies endures.

The mantles.--Better,tunics.The uppermost of the two garments, commonly richly embroidered.

Wimples.--The obsolete English word describes accurately enough the largeshawl,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. . . .