Isaiah 4:1
Isaiah 4:1 in Multiple Translations
In that day seven women will take hold of one man and say, “We will eat our own bread and provide our own clothes. Just let us be called by your name. Take away our disgrace!”
And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach.
And seven women shall take hold of one man in that day, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name; take thou away our reproach.
And in that day seven women will put their hands on one man, saying, There will be no need for you to give us food or clothing, only let us go under your name, so that our shame may be taken away.
At that time seven women will grab hold of one man and tell him, “We'll eat our own food and we can provide our own clothes. Just let us take your name by being married to you. Please take away our disgrace!”
And in that day shall seuen women take hold of one man, saying, Wee will eate our owne bread, and we wil weare our owne garments: onely let vs bee called by thy name, and take away our reproche.
And taken hold have seven women on one man, In that day, saying, 'Our own bread we do eat, And our own raiment we put on, Only, let thy name be called over us, Remove thou our reproach.'
Seven women shall take hold of one man in that day, saying, “We will eat our own bread, and wear our own clothing. Just let us be called by your name. Take away our reproach.”
And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach.
And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying: We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, take away our reproach.
When that happens, there will be very few unmarried men still alive. As a result, seven unmarried women will grab one man, and say, “Allow us all to marry you [IDM]! We will provide our own food and clothing. All that we want is to no longer be disgraced because of not being married.”
Berean Amplified Bible — Isaiah 4:1
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Isaiah 4:1 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וְ/הֶחֱזִיקוּ֩
שֶׁ֨בַע
נָשִׁ֜ים
בְּ/אִ֣ישׁ
אֶחָ֗ד
בַּ/יּ֤וֹם
הַ/הוּא֙
לֵ/אמֹ֔ר
לַחְמֵ֣/נוּ
נֹאכֵ֔ל
וְ/שִׂמְלָתֵ֖/נוּ
נִלְבָּ֑שׁ
רַ֗ק
יִקָּרֵ֤א
שִׁמְ/ךָ֙
עָלֵ֔י/נוּ
אֱסֹ֖ף
חֶרְפָּתֵֽ/נוּ
וְ/הֶחֱזִיקוּ֩
châzaq
H2388
to strengthen
Conj | V-Hiphil-3cp
שֶׁ֨בַע
shebaʻ
H7651
seven
Adj
נָשִׁ֜ים
ʼishshâh
H802
woman
N-fp
בְּ/אִ֣ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
Prep | N-ms
אֶחָ֗ד
ʼechâd
H259
one
Adj
בַּ/יּ֤וֹם
yôwm
H3117
day
Prep | N-ms
הַ/הוּא֙
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Art | Pron
לֵ/אמֹ֔ר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
לַחְמֵ֣/נוּ
lechem
H3899
food
N-cs | Suff
נֹאכֵ֔ל
ʼâkal
H398
to eat
V-Qal-Imperf-1cp
וְ/שִׂמְלָתֵ֖/נוּ
simlâh
H8071
mantle
Conj | N-fs | Suff
נִלְבָּ֑שׁ
lâbash
H3847
to clothe
V-Qal-Imperf-1cp
רַ֗ק
raq
H7535
except
DirObjM
יִקָּרֵ֤א
qârâʼ
H7121
to call
V-Niphal-Imperf-3ms
שִׁמְ/ךָ֙
shêm
H8034
name
N-ms | Suff
עָלֵ֔י/נוּ
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep | Suff
אֱסֹ֖ף
ʼâçaph
H622
to gather
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
חֶרְפָּתֵֽ/נוּ
cherpâh
H2781
reproach
N-fs | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Isaiah 4:1
וְ/הֶחֱזִיקוּ֩
châzaq
H2388
"to strengthen"
Conj | V-Hiphil-3cp
To strengthen means to be strong or courageous, and can also mean to seize or conquer, as seen in various KJV translations.
Definition: : strengthen/support/encourage 1) to strengthen, prevail, harden, be strong, become strong, be courageous, be firm, grow firm, be resolute, be sore 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be strong, grow strong 1a1a) to prevail, prevail upon 1a1b) to be firm, be caught fast, be secure 1a1c) to press, be urgent 1a1d) to grow stout, grow rigid, grow hard (bad sense) 1a1e) to be severe, be grievous 1a2) to strengthen 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to make strong 1b2) to restore to strength, give strength 1b3) to strengthen, sustain, encourage 1b4) to make strong, make bold, encourage 1b5) to make firm 1b6) to make rigid, make hard 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to make strong, strengthen 1c2) to make firm 1c3) to display strength 1c4) to make severe 1c5) to support 1c6) to repair 1c7) to prevail, prevail upon 1c8) to have or take or keep hold of, retain, hold up, sustain, support 1c9) to hold, contain 1d) (Hithpael) 1d1) to strengthen oneself 1d2) to put forth strength, use one's strength 1d3) to withstand 1d4) to hold strongly with
Usage: Occurs in 266 OT verses. KJV: aid, amend, [idiom] calker, catch, cleave, confirm, be constant, constrain, continue, be of good (take) courage(-ous, -ly), encourage (self), be established, fasten, force, fortify, make hard, harden, help, (lay) hold (fast), lean, maintain, play the man, mend, become (wax) mighty, prevail, be recovered, repair, retain, seize, be (wax) sore, strengthen (self), be stout, be (make, shew, wax) strong(-er), be sure, take (hold), be urgent, behave self valiantly, withstand. See also: Genesis 19:16; 1 Chronicles 22:13; Psalms 27:14.
שֶׁ֨בַע
shebaʻ
H7651
"seven"
Adj
This word means the number seven, which was considered a special or sacred number. It can also mean seven times or a week, and is used in the Bible to describe completeness or perfection. The KJV translates it as seven or sevenfold.
Definition: 1) seven (cardinal number) 1a) as ordinal number 1b) in combination-17, 700 etc Aramaic equivalent: shiv.ah (שִׁבְעָה "seven" H7655)
Usage: Occurs in 344 OT verses. KJV: ([phrase] by) seven(-fold),-s, (-teen, -teenth), -th, times). Compare H7658 (שִׁבְעָנָה). See also: Genesis 4:24; Leviticus 23:15; 2 Samuel 21:6.
נָשִׁ֜ים
ʼishshâh
H802
"woman"
N-fp
The Hebrew word for woman, used to describe a female person, wife, or animal, appears in many biblical passages, including Genesis and Exodus, and is often translated as woman, wife, or female.
Definition: : woman 1) woman, wife, female 1a) woman (opposite of man) 1b) wife (woman married to a man) 1c) female (of animals) 1d) each, every (pronoun)
Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: (adulter) ess, each, every, female, [idiom] many, [phrase] none, one, [phrase] together, wife, woman. Often unexpressed in English. See also: Genesis 2:22; Genesis 34:4; Numbers 5:12.
בְּ/אִ֣ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
אֶחָ֗ד
ʼechâd
H259
"one"
Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means one or united, and is used to describe something that is single or unique. It is often translated as one, first, or alone. For example, in Genesis 1:5, God calls the light day and the darkness night, and separates them into one thing from another.
Definition: 1) one (number) 1a) one (number) 1b) each, every 1c) a certain 1d) an (indefinite article) 1e) only, once, once for all 1f) one...another, the one...the other, one after another, one by one 1g) first 1h) eleven (in combination), eleventh (ordinal)
Usage: Occurs in 739 OT verses. KJV: a, alike, alone, altogether, and, any(-thing), apiece, a certain, (dai-) ly, each (one), [phrase] eleven, every, few, first, [phrase] highway, a man, once, one, only, other, some, together, See also: Genesis 1:5; Exodus 36:26; Numbers 7:70.
בַּ/יּ֤וֹם
yôwm
H3117
"day"
Prep | N-ms
The Hebrew word 'yom' refers to a day, which can be a literal 24-hour period or a figurative space of time. It is used in the Bible to describe a wide range of time periods, from a single day to a year or a lifetime. The word 'yom' is used in many different contexts throughout the Bible.
Definition: : day/when/time/period 1) day, time, year 1a) day (as opposed to night) 1b) day (24 hour period) 1b1) as defined by evening and morning in Genesis 1 1b2) as a division of time 1b2a) a working day, a day's journey 1c) days, lifetime (pl.) 1d) time, period (general) 1e) year 1f) temporal references 1f1) today 1f2) yesterday 1f3) tomorrow
Usage: Occurs in 1930 OT verses. KJV: age, [phrase] always, [phrase] chronicals, continually(-ance), daily, ((birth-), each, to) day, (now a, two) days (agone), [phrase] elder, [idiom] end, [phrase] evening, [phrase] (for) ever(-lasting, -more), [idiom] full, life, as (so) long as (... live), (even) now, [phrase] old, [phrase] outlived, [phrase] perpetually, presently, [phrase] remaineth, [idiom] required, season, [idiom] since, space, then, (process of) time, [phrase] as at other times, [phrase] in trouble, weather, (as) when, (a, the, within a) while (that), [idiom] whole ([phrase] age), (full) year(-ly), [phrase] younger. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 33:13; Exodus 23:15.
הַ/הוּא֙
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Art | Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
לֵ/אמֹ֔ר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
לַחְמֵ֣/נוּ
lechem
H3899
"food"
N-cs | Suff
This Hebrew word refers to food, especially bread or grain. It's used throughout the Bible to describe meals, sacrifices, and daily life, highlighting the importance of food in ancient Israelite culture.
Definition: : food(eating) 1) bread, food, grain 1a) bread 1a1) bread 1a2) bread-corn 1b) food (in general)
Usage: Occurs in 277 OT verses. KJV: (shew-) bread, [idiom] eat, food, fruit, loaf, meat, victuals. See also: Genesis 3:19; 1 Samuel 20:34; Psalms 14:4.
נֹאכֵ֔ל
ʼâkal
H398
"to eat"
V-Qal-Imperf-1cp
This word means to eat or devour, and it's used in many stories, including when Jesus fed the 5000 with fish and bread in the book of Matthew. It's about taking in nourishment and being satisfied.
Definition: 1) to eat, devour, burn up, feed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to eat (human subject) 1a2) to eat, devour (of beasts and birds) 1a3) to devour, consume (of fire) 1a4) to devour, slay (of sword) 1a5) to devour, consume, destroy (inanimate subjects - ie, pestilence, drought) 1a6) to devour (of oppression) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be eaten (by men) 1b2) to be devoured, consumed (of fire) 1b3) to be wasted, destroyed (of flesh) 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to cause to eat, feed with 1c2) to cause to devour 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to feed 1d2) to cause to eat 1e) (Piel) 1e1) consume Aramaic equivalent: a.khal (אֲכַל "to devour" H0399)
Usage: Occurs in 703 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, burn up, consume, devour(-er, up), dine, eat(-er, up), feed (with), food, [idiom] freely, [idiom] in...wise(-deed, plenty), (lay) meat, [idiom] quite. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 6:9; Numbers 24:8.
וְ/שִׂמְלָתֵ֖/נוּ
simlâh
H8071
"mantle"
Conj | N-fs | Suff
A mantle or dress, like a cloak, is what 'simlah' refers to in the Bible, often translated as 'apparel' or 'garment'.
Definition: wrapper, mantle, covering garment, garments, clothes, raiment, a cloth
Usage: Occurs in 28 OT verses. KJV: apparel, cloth(-es, -ing), garment, raiment. Compare H8008 (שַׂלְמָה). See also: Genesis 9:23; Deuteronomy 21:13; Proverbs 30:4.
נִלְבָּ֑שׁ
lâbash
H3847
"to clothe"
V-Qal-Imperf-1cp
To clothe means to wrap something around or put on a garment. In the Bible, it can be used literally or figuratively, as in putting on clothes or being clothed with a certain attitude.
Definition: 1) to dress, wear, clothe, put on clothing, be clothed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to put on clothes, be clothed, wear 1a2) to put on, be clothed with (fig.) 1b) (Pual) to be fully clothed 1c) (Hiphil) to clothe, array with, dress Aramaic equivalent: le.vash (לְבֵשׁ "to clothe" H3848)
Usage: Occurs in 102 OT verses. KJV: (in) apparel, arm, array (self), clothe (self), come upon, put (on, upon), wear. See also: Genesis 3:21; Job 27:17; Psalms 35:26.
רַ֗ק
raq
H7535
"except"
DirObjM
This Hebrew word means 'except' or 'only', used to limit or emphasize something, like in Exodus 12:11 where it says to eat the Passover meal in haste, with nothing but your clothes on. It can also mean 'but' or 'nevertheless'.
Definition: 1) only, altogether, surely 1a) only 1b) only, nought but, altogether (in limitation) 1c) save, except (after a negative) 1d) only, altogether, surely (with an affirmative) 1e) if only, provided only (prefixed for emphasis) 1f) only, exclusively (for emphasis)
Usage: Occurs in 107 OT verses. KJV: but, even, except, howbeit howsoever, at the least, nevertheless, nothing but, notwithstanding, only, save, so (that), surely, yet (so), in any wise. See also: Genesis 6:5; Joshua 13:14; Psalms 32:6.
יִקָּרֵ֤א
qârâʼ
H7121
"to call"
V-Niphal-Imperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to call out to someone or something, often by name. It's used in many situations, like calling for help or reading aloud. In Genesis, God calls out to Adam in the Garden.
Definition: : call_to/invite/entreat 1) to call, call out, recite, read, cry out, proclaim 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to call, cry, utter a loud sound 1a2) to call unto, cry (for help), call (with name of God) 1a3) to proclaim 1a4) to read aloud, read (to oneself), read 1a5) to summon, invite, call for, call and commission, appoint, call and endow 1a6) to call, name, give name to, call by 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to call oneself 1b2) to be called, be proclaimed, be read aloud, be summoned, be named 1c) (Pual) to be called, be named, be called out, be chosen
Usage: Occurs in 689 OT verses. KJV: bewray (self), that are bidden, call (for, forth, self, upon), cry (unto), (be) famous, guest, invite, mention, (give) name, preach, (make) proclaim(-ation), pronounce, publish, read, renowned, say. See also: Genesis 1:5; Genesis 49:1; Judges 1:26.
שִׁמְ/ךָ֙
shêm
H8034
"name"
N-ms | Suff
In the Bible, a name represents a person's identity, honor, and character, like God's name symbolizing His power and authority. It appears in Genesis and other books, often referring to God's name or a person's reputation. This concept is central to understanding biblical identity.
Definition: 1) name 1a) name 1b) reputation, fame, glory 1c) the Name (as designation of God) 1d) memorial, monument Aramaic equivalent: shum (שֻׁם "name" H8036)
Usage: Occurs in 771 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] base, (in-) fame(-ous), named(-d), renown, report. See also: Genesis 2:11; Exodus 3:15; Deuteronomy 16:6.
עָלֵ֔י/נוּ
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
אֱסֹ֖ף
ʼâçaph
H622
"to gather"
V-Qal-Impv-2ms
To gather means to bring people or things together, often for a purpose like worship or community. It can also mean to take away or remove something, like gathering a harvest. This word appears in books like Genesis and Psalms.
Definition: 1) to gather, receive, remove, gather in 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to gather, collect 1a2) to gather (an individual into company of others) 1a3) to bring up the rear 1a4) to gather and take away, remove, withdraw 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to assemble, be gathered 1b2) (pass of Qal 1a2) 1b2a) to be gathered to one's fathers 1b2b) to be brought in or into (association with others) 1b3) (pass of Qal 1a4) 1b3a) to be taken away, removed, perish 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to gather (harvest) 1c2) to take in, receive into 1c3) rearguard, rearward (subst) 1d) (Pual) to be gathered 1e) (Hithpael) to gather oneself or themselves
Usage: Occurs in 188 OT verses. KJV: assemble, bring, consume, destroy, felch, gather (in, together, up again), [idiom] generally, get (him), lose, put all together, receive, recover (another from leprosy), (be) rereward, [idiom] surely, take (away, into, up), [idiom] utterly, withdraw. See also: Genesis 6:21; 1 Chronicles 11:13; Psalms 26:9.
חֶרְפָּתֵֽ/נוּ
cherpâh
H2781
"reproach"
N-fs | Suff
Cherpah means reproach or shame, often used to describe scorn or disgrace. In the Bible, it is used to express strong feelings of shame or humiliation.
Definition: 1) reproach, scorn 1a) taunt, scorn (upon enemy) 1b) reproach (resting upon condition of shame, disgrace) 1c) a reproach (an object)
Usage: Occurs in 72 OT verses. KJV: rebuke, reproach(-fully), shame. See also: Genesis 30:23; Isaiah 25:8; Psalms 15:3.
Study Notes — Isaiah 4:1
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Isaiah 4:1 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Isaiah 4:1
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Isaiah 4:1
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Isaiah 4:1
- Trapp's Commentary on Isaiah 4:1
- Ellicott's Commentary on Isaiah 4:1
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Isaiah 4:1
- Cambridge Bible on Isaiah 4:1
- Barnes' Notes on Isaiah 4:1
- Whedon's Commentary on Isaiah 4:1
- Sermons on Isaiah 4:1
Context — A Remnant in Zion
1In that day seven women will take hold of one man and say, “We will eat our own bread and provide our own clothes. Just let us be called by your name. Take away our disgrace!”
2On that day the Branch of the LORD will be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory of Israel’s survivors. 3Whoever remains in Zion and whoever is left in Jerusalem will be called holy— all in Jerusalem who are recorded among the living—Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genesis 30:23 | and she conceived and gave birth to a son. “God has taken away my shame,” she said. |
| 2 | Isaiah 2:17 | So the pride of man will be brought low, and the loftiness of men will be humbled; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day, |
| 3 | Isaiah 13:12 | I will make man scarcer than pure gold, and mankind rarer than the gold of Ophir. |
| 4 | Luke 21:22 | For these are the days of vengeance, to fulfill all that is written. |
| 5 | Luke 1:25 | “The Lord has done this for me. In these days He has shown me favor and taken away my disgrace among the people.” |
| 6 | 2 Thessalonians 3:12 | We command and urge such people by our Lord Jesus Christ to begin working quietly to earn their own living. |
| 7 | 1 Samuel 1:6 | Because the LORD had closed Hannah’s womb, her rival would provoke her and taunt her viciously. |
| 8 | Isaiah 3:25–26 | Your men will fall by the sword, and your warriors in battle. And the gates of Zion will lament and mourn; destitute, she will sit on the ground. |
| 9 | Isaiah 10:20 | On that day the remnant of Israel and the survivors of the house of Jacob will no longer depend on him who struck them, but they will truly rely on the LORD, the Holy One of Israel. |
| 10 | Isaiah 2:11 | The proud look of man will be humbled, and the loftiness of men brought low; the LORD alone will be exalted in that day. |
Isaiah 4:1 Summary
This verse describes a scene where seven women are so desperate for protection and provision that they are willing to take care of themselves and just be associated with a man. They want to be called by his name to remove the shame of being unmarried. This shows how much they value marriage and family, as seen in Genesis 2:24 where God ordains marriage. It also highlights their desire for security and dignity, which is a fundamental human need that can only be truly fulfilled in a relationship with God, as promised in Psalm 23:1-4.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do the seven women in Isaiah 4:1 want to be called by the man's name?
The seven women want to be called by the man's name because, in that day, they will be desperate for protection and provision, and being associated with a man would bring them a sense of security and dignity, as seen in other biblical accounts such as Ruth 2:2 where Ruth gleaned in the fields of Boaz to provide for herself and her mother-in-law.
What is the significance of the women saying they will eat their own bread and provide their own clothes?
The women's statement indicates that they are willing to take care of their own physical needs, but they still desire the social and emotional benefits of being married, as marriage is a divine institution ordained by God in Genesis 2:24.
How does this verse relate to the broader context of Isaiah 4?
This verse sets the stage for the description of the Branch of the LORD in Isaiah 4:2, which will bring beauty, glory, and pride to Israel's survivors, and serves as a reminder that God's people will be restored and redeemed, as promised in Isaiah 61:3.
What does the phrase 'Take away our disgrace' mean in this context?
The phrase 'Take away our disgrace' suggests that the women are seeking to remove the shame and stigma associated with being unmarried and childless, which was a significant social and cultural issue in ancient Israel, as seen in the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1:6-7.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways in which I may be seeking validation or security in my own life, and how can I turn to God for true fulfillment?
- How can I apply the principle of humility and willingness to provide for myself, as seen in the women's statement, to my own life and relationships?
- What are some areas in my life where I may be experiencing shame or disgrace, and how can I seek God's redemption and restoration in those areas?
- In what ways can I trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even in the midst of difficult circumstances, as seen in the broader context of Isaiah 4?
Gill's Exposition on Isaiah 4:1
And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man,.... Not in the days of Ahaz, when Pekah, son of Remaliah, slew in Judah a hundred and twenty thousand men in one day, 2 Chronicles 28:6 as
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Isaiah 4:1
And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Isaiah 4:1
ISAIAH CHAPTER 4 In the extremity of evils, Christ’ s glorious kingdom should appear to those who are left alive, ,2. They shall be holy, ; purged, . A glory and defence upon them, . A sanctuary from evils, . In that day, of which he hath hitherto been speaking, Isaiah 2 Isaiah 3, and still continueth to speak. In that calamitous time. Seven; many. A certain number for an uncertain. Shall take hold; shall sue to him, and even lay hands upon him, contrary to their custom, and their natural modesty. Of one man; because few men shall survive that dreadful stroke.
They who before were not contented with their own husbands, are now glad of a seventh part of a husband. We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel; we will ease thee of that charge, which otherwise would fall upon thee by God’ s law, . Let us be called by thy name; own us for thy wives. Reproach: virginity was esteemed a reproach, especially among that people, because it was a token of contempt from men, and of the curse of God; children, the usual fruit of marriage, being both an honour to their parents before men, and a great blessing of God, especially to that people, from some of whose loins the Messiah was to spring.
Trapp's Commentary on Isaiah 4:1
Isaiah 4:1 And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach.Ver. 1. And in that day,] sc., That day of desolation. Seven women,] i.e., Many women. See the like Zechariah 8:23. The women had been grievously threatened, the men also for their sakes, and yet the prophet hath not done with them. So heinous is sin in either sex. Shall take hold of one man.] Who themselves were wont to be sued unto by many men; and perhaps were not content with their own husbands when they had them alive, but were sick of a pleurisy. We will eat our own bread, &c.] Whereas the husband giveth to his wife food, raiment, and due benevolence: these would crave the last only, which yet they could not do neither in this sort but by laying aside woman-like modesty. Only let us be called by thy name.] As wives used to be by their husbands’ names, both among the Jews and other nations, as Mary Cleophas, Mary Zebedee, &c. Solomon’ s wife was after his name called Shulamite; and the Roman ladies were wont to say to their husbands, Ubi tu Caius, ibi ego Caia.
Where you are Gaius there I am Gaia. To take away our reproach.] Of want of husbands and children. See Psalms 78:63 Judges 11:36-37 Jeremiah 30:17.
Ellicott's Commentary on Isaiah 4:1
IV. (1) And in that day seven women . . .—The chapter division wrongly separates this verse from the foregoing. It comes as the climax of the chastisement of the daughters of Zion, as the companion picture to Isaiah 3:6. As men sought eagerly, yet in vain, a protector, so women should seek for a husband. Those who had been wooed and courted, and had been proudly fastidious, should supplicate in eager rivalry (the seven women to one man implies a land depopulated by war, and so making polygamy natural) for the protection of marriage, and that not on the usual conditions of having food and clothing found for them (Exodus 21:10), but as working for their own livelihood. To take away our reproach.—Better, as an imperative, take thou away. The reproach is that of being childless. From the Jewish standpoint that was not only the great sorrow, but the great shame, of womanhood, implying, as men thought, a sin of which it was the chastisement (Genesis 30:23; 1 Samuel 1:6; Luke 1:25).
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Isaiah 4:1
CHAPTER IV The havoc occasioned by war, and those other calamities which the prophet had been describing in the preceding chapter, are represented as so terribly great that seven women should be left to one man, 1. Great blessedness of the remnant that shall be accounted worthy to escape these judgments, 2-4. The privileges of the Gospel set forth by allusions to the glory and pomp of the Mosaic dispensation, 5, 6. NOTES ON CHAP. IV Verse 1. And seven women] The division of the chapters has interrupted the prophet's discourse, and broken it off almost in the midst of the sentence. "The numbers slain in battle shall be so great, that seven women shall be left to one man." The prophet has described the greatness of this distress by images and adjuncts the most expressive and forcible. The young women, contrary to their natural modesty, shall become suitors to the men: they will take hold of them, and use the most pressing importunity to be married. In spite of the natural suggestions of jealousy, they will be content with a share only of the rights of marriage in common with several others; and that on hard conditions, renouncing the legal demands of the wife on the husband, (see Exodus 21:10,) and begging only the name and credit of wedlock, and to be freed from the reproach of celibacy. See Isaiah 54:4-5.
Like Marcia, on a different occasion, and in other circumstances: - Da tantum nomen inane Connubii: liceat tumulo scripsisse, Catonis Marcia. LUCAN, ii. 342. "This happened," says Kimchi, "in the days of Ahaz, when Pekah the son of Remaliah slew in Judea one hundred and twenty thousand men in one day; see 2 Chronicles 28:6. The widows which were left were so numerous that the prophet said, 'They are multiplied beyond the sand of the sea,'" Jeremiah 15:8. In that day] These words are omitted in the Septuagint, and MSS.
Cambridge Bible on Isaiah 4:1
Isaiah 4:1. “A companion picture to Isaiah 3:6 … the male population are in search of a ruler; the women in search of a husband” (Weir, quoted by Cheyne). The verse, therefore, represents an episode in that scene of anarchy which has been the main burden of this prophecy. let us be called …] let thy name be named over us. The wife bore the husband’s name, but only, it would seem, in such designations as “Sarai, Abram’s wife,” Genesis 16:1, &c. to take away …] take thou away our reproach (R.V.). The disgrace of being unmarried is meant (Judges 11:37 f.). Grotius cites a touching parallel from Lucan (Pharsal. II. 342):— da tantum nomen inane Connubii: liceat tumulo scripsisse, Catonis Marcia.
Barnes' Notes on Isaiah 4:1
In that day - The time of calamity referred to in the close of the previous chapter. This is a continuation of that prophecy, and there was no reason why these six verses should have been made a separate chapter.
Whedon's Commentary on Isaiah 4:1
1. The first verse completes the picture of domestic desolation on account of the scarcity of male inhabitants, destroyed by war or carried to Babylon as captives.
Sermons on Isaiah 4:1
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True Revival - the Presence of the Lord by Leonard Ravenhill | Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the necessity of experiencing the true presence of God for genuine revival, drawing from Isaiah 4 and the covenant with Abraham. He reflects on the lon |
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(February 1987) 06 - a New Pasture by Ray Lowe | In this sermon, the preacher talks about how many people are spending their money on things that do not satisfy their spiritual hunger. He emphasizes that God is gathering his scat |
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On Head Coverings by John Calvin | John Calvin preaches about the importance of maintaining decorum and order in sacred assemblies, emphasizing the significance of following traditions and practices that are rooted |
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God's People Will Never Be Ashamed by David Wilkerson | This sermon emphasizes the importance of trusting in God during times of fear and calamity. It highlights the need to commit to God's promises, believe in His ability to work mirac |
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Isaiah 2v11 by John Marshall | In this sermon, the preacher begins by emphasizing the greatness of God and how incomprehensible His nature is to humans. He highlights that the world does not acknowledge or under |
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Honey Out of the Rock by Thomas Wilcox | Thomas Wilcox preaches about the importance of having the blood of Christ at the root of one's religion, warning against retaining guilt and self-righteousness which can destroy th |
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Epistle 50 by George Fox | George Fox preaches about dwelling in purity and waiting for the power of God to preserve believers in that purity. He emphasizes knowing the seed of God in one another to overcome |