מַעֲטָפָה

Core Meaning & Semantic Range

The Hebrew word maʻăṭâphâh, represented by H4595, is a specific term for a cloak or mantle. This word is extremely rare, appearing only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the entire Bible. Its meaning is derived from the root עָטַף and it refers to a type of outer garment.

Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis

The sole appearance of H4595 is found in a prophetic oracle in Isaiah 3:22. Here, it is part of an extensive list of luxurious apparel and accessories that will be taken away from the haughty daughters of Zion as a form of divine judgment. The mantle is listed alongside other fine garments, emphasizing the wealth and pride that had come to characterize them.

Related Words & Concepts

The word is contextualized by the other items listed with it in Isaiah 3:22. Several related terms for clothing and accessories appear in the same verse:

• H4254 machălâtsâh (changeable suit of apparel, change of raiment): This refers to fine clothing that could be easily drawn off. It appears in the list as "changeable suits of apparel" Isaiah 3:22 and is also mentioned in the context of priestly garments Zechariah 3:4.
• H4304 miṭpachath (vail, wimple): This denotes a wide cloak or covering for a woman. It is mentioned as "wimples" in the prophecy against Zion Isaiah 3:22 and as a "vail" in the story of Ruth Ruth 3:15.
• H2754 chârîyṭ (bag, crisping pin): A term for a pocket or bag, it is listed as "crisping pins" in Isaiah's prophecy Isaiah 3:22. It is also used to mean "bags" for carrying silver 2 Kings 5:23.

Theological Significance

While rare, the theological weight of H4595 is derived entirely from its context within Isaiah's prophecy. It serves as a specific example within a broader moral lesson.

• Symbol of Worldly Pride: The mantle, as part of a long list of finery, symbolizes the material excess and vanity that God judges. It represents a focus on external appearance over inner righteousness.
• Object of Judgment: The explicit mention that this garment will be taken away underscores the theme that material possessions are fleeting and cannot provide security against divine judgment.
• Instrument of Humbling: The removal of the mantle and other luxurious items is part of a divine act of humbling the proud. It illustrates a recurring biblical principle where God opposes the haughty.

Summary

In summary, H4595 maʻăṭâphâh is a term for a mantle or cloak with a single, highly specific use in scripture. Its significance is not in its frequency but in its powerful contextual role in Isaiah 3:22. It functions as a tangible symbol of worldly luxury that becomes a target of divine judgment, illustrating the biblical theme that God will humble the proud by stripping away the very things in which they place their trust and identity.