The Hebrew word ʻâkaç, represented by H5913, is a primitive root with a primary meaning "to tie, specifically, with fetters." However, in its sole biblical use, it is a denominative verb meaning to put on anklets or make a tinkling ornament. It appears 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible, associated with a specific act of adornment.
The single appearance of H5913 is in Isaiah 3:16, within a prophecy from the LORD concerning the women of Jerusalem. The verse describes the "daughters of Zion" as "haughty" and walking with "wanton eyes." Their stride is characterized as "walking and mincing as they go," and the verse culminates by noting they are "making a tinkling" H5913 with their feet. In this context, the action is not presented neutrally but as part of a list of behaviors for which they are being judged.
Several related words in the passage provide context for the action of ʻâkaç:
- H1361 gâbahh (haughty): Defined as "to soar, i.e. be lofty; figuratively, to be haughty," this word describes the proud inner attitude of the women. This same word is used to describe the prideful heart of man before destruction Proverbs 18:12 and the lifted-up heart of the prince of Tyrus Ezekiel 28:2, but also the exaltation of God Isaiah 5:16.
- H8265 sâqar (wanton): This word, meaning "to ogle, i.e. blink coquettishly; wanton," is used to describe their eyes in Isaiah 3:16. It directly links their outward gaze to the prideful demeanor that is also expressed by the sound from their feet H5913.
The theological significance of H5913 is tied entirely to its singular, specific context.
- An Outward Sign of Inner Pride: The act of "making a tinkling" is presented as a tangible expression of the haughtiness H1361 condemned by the LORD. The sound from the anklets is an audible signal of the pride described in the passage.
- Focus of Divine Judgment: This word is part of a larger divine rebuke against vanity and arrogance. The passage in Isaiah 3:16 illustrates that God observes and judges not only inward attitudes but also the outward actions that stem from them. The tinkling feet are cited as evidence in a case against the "daughters of Zion."
In summary, H5913 provides a vivid and specific picture of a particular kind of adornment. Its importance in scripture comes from its singular use in Isaiah 3:16, where it is not merely a description of fashion but a key element in a prophecy of judgment. It powerfully illustrates how an outward action—making a sound with ornamented feet—can be an expression of an inner heart condition of pride and haughtiness.
TRV