The Hebrew word kîy, represented by H3587, is a term for a brand or scar; burning. This word is exceedingly rare, appearing just 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible, which makes its single usage highly specific and impactful.
The sole appearance of H3587 is in a prophecy of judgment in Isaiah 3:24. In this verse, the Lord pronounces a stark reversal of fortune for the daughters of Zion, whose finery and vanity will be stripped away. A series of contrasts are listed: sweet smell is replaced by stink, a girdle by a rent, and well set hair by baldness. In this context, the burning or brand serves as the final, dramatic punishment, given explicitly in place of beauty H3308.
The meaning of H3587 is illuminated by the words it is contrasted with in its only scriptural context:
- H3308 yŏphîy (beauty): This is the direct opposite of the burning or scar. It refers to physical attractiveness, which can be a source of pride and, in some cases, a cause for downfall, as when Jerusalem is said to have trusted in its own beauty and played the harlot Ezekiel 16:15.
- H1314 besem (sweet odour): This word denotes fragrance or spice and is associated with luxury and pleasure. In the judgment of Isaiah, it is replaced by stink H4716. It appears as a valuable commodity brought by the queen of Sheba 2 Chronicles 9:1.
- H2290 chăgôwr (girdle): A belt or girdle, often an element of fine dress or armor, is replaced by a rent. An early use of the word describes the aprons Adam and Eve made from fig leaves Genesis 3:7.
The theological weight of H3587 is derived entirely from its singular, powerful use as a tool of divine judgment.
- Judgment on Pride: The replacement of beauty with burning is a direct consequence of misplaced pride and vanity. It functions as a divine punishment for the haughtiness of the people described in the prophecy Isaiah 3:24.
- Irreversible Consequence: Unlike clothing that can be changed or hair that can regrow, a burning or brand implies a permanent, disfiguring mark. This suggests the lasting and visible nature of God's judgment against sin.
- Reversal of Worldly Values: The passage systematically strips away symbols of worldly appeal and status. The burning serves as the culmination of this reversal, showing that what is valued by humanity can be utterly undone by God Isaiah 3:24.
In summary, kîy H3587 provides a potent and unforgettable image. Though used only once, its placement in Isaiah 3:24 defines it as a symbol of divine retribution. It represents not just the loss of superficial beauty, but its replacement with a permanent mark of shame and disgrace—a burning. The word serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of pride and the frailty of worldly status in the face of divine judgment.
TRV