### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻădîy**, represented by `{{H5716}}`, primarily signifies **finery** or an **ornament**. It comes from the root `{{H5710}}` and generally refers to an outfit or trappings. It appears **14 times** across **13 unique verses** and also carries idiomatic meanings, including **excellent** and **mouth**, often in the sense of a headstall for an animal.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{H5716}}` carries significant symbolic weight related to God's relationship with Israel. God is depicted as the one who decks His people with **ornaments** as a sign of favor and blessing [[Ezekiel 16:11]]. Conversely, the removal of these **ornaments** is an act of mourning and repentance, as when the Israelites stripped themselves of their finery at Mount Horeb [[Exodus 33:5-6]]. The term is also used metaphorically to describe how a bride remembers her **ornaments** [[Jeremiah 2:32]]. However, it can also denote a perversion of beauty, where an **ornament** is used to create idols [[Ezekiel 7:20]]. In a distinct idiomatic sense, `{{H5716}}` refers to the **mouth**, either as that which is satisfied by God [[Psalms 103:5]] or that which must be controlled with a bit and bridle [[Psalms 32:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of `{{H5716}}`:
* `{{H5710}}` **ʻâdâh** (adorn, deck): This is the primitive root from which ʻădîy is derived. It means to bedeck or pass on, and it is used when God **decked** Israel with ornaments [[Ezekiel 16:11]].
* `{{H3847}}` **lâbash** (clothe): Meaning to wrap around or put on a garment, this word is often used with ʻădîy. God promises that Israel will **clothe** itself with its people as with an **ornament** [[Isaiah 49:18]].
* `{{H7196}}` **qishshur** (attire, headband): A specific ornamental item, this word appears alongside ʻădîy in the rhetorical question asking if a bride can forget her **attire**, highlighting how Israel has forgotten God [[Jeremiah 2:32]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H5716}}` is centered on its use as a barometer for the spiritual state of God's people.
* **Symbol of Divine Favor:** Ornaments are a physical manifestation of God's covenant blessings and the beauty He bestows upon His people. God himself is shown adorning Jerusalem as a bride ([[Ezekiel 16:11]], [[Ezekiel 23:40]]).
* **Indicator of Covenant Relationship:** The presence or absence of ornaments reflects Israel's standing with God. A bride cherishes her **ornaments** [[Jeremiah 2:32]], while a people under judgment are commanded to remove them [[Exodus 33:5]].
* **Instrument of Control or Satisfaction:** The idiomatic use of `{{H5716}}` as "mouth" or "headstall" extends the theme of trappings. It can refer to the need for divine restraint [[Psalms 32:9]] or the fulfillment that comes from God [[Psalms 103:5]].
* **Potential for Vanity and Idolatry:** The Bible also shows how divine gifts can be corrupted. Ornaments can be used in vain attempts to secure worldly alliances [[Jeremiah 4:30]] or melted down to create abominations [[Ezekiel 7:20]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H5716}}` is a multifaceted word that moves beyond simple decoration. It serves as a powerful symbol in Scripture, representing divine blessing, covenant status, and the spiritual condition of the human heart. Whether as finery that displays God's favor, a headstall that requires control, or an object misused for idolatry, **ʻădîy** consistently illustrates the dynamic relationship between God and His people.
TRV