of uncertain derivation; probably a figured mantle forholidays; stomacher.
Transliteration:pᵉthîygîyl
Pronunciation:peth-eeg-eel'
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term פְּתִיגִיל (pᵉthîygîyl), Strong's number `{{H6614}}`, is of uncertain etymological derivation, making its precise semantic range somewhat limited to its contextual usage. The base definition suggests it was "probably a figured mantle for holidays" or a "stomacher." This indicates an article of clothing, likely ornamental, perhaps embroidered or otherwise embellished, and intended for special occasions or festive wear. The term "stomacher" points to a decorative piece of clothing worn over the chest or stomach, often beneath an outer garment, signifying a garment of luxury or distinction. The ambiguity in its root suggests it may have been a foreign loanword or a term whose specific meaning was understood within its cultural context but is now obscured.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word פְּתִיגִיל (pᵉthîygîyl) appears only once in the Hebrew Bible, in [[Isaiah 3:24]]. This singular occurrence is crucial for understanding its meaning and significance. The passage in Isaiah 3 describes the impending judgment upon the proud and idolatrous daughters of Zion, who are characterized by their excessive adornment and self-indulgence.
[[Isaiah 3:24]] states: "And it shall come to pass, that instead of sweet smell there shall be stink; and instead of a girdle a rent; and instead of well set hair baldness; and instead of a stomacher a girding of sackcloth; and burning instead of beauty."
In this verse, פְּתִיגִיל is listed among other items of luxury and beauty that will be stripped away from the women of Jerusalem as a sign of their humiliation and the desolation of the city. The contrast between this fine garment and "a girding of sackcloth" (שַׂק, *saq*, a coarse material worn in mourning or repentance) powerfully underscores its nature as a symbol of status, wealth, and celebration. Its removal signifies a complete reversal of fortune, from opulence to destitution, from joy to mourning, and from honor to shame. The context clearly establishes פְּתִיגִיל as a valuable and desirable piece of apparel, emblematic of the societal pride and material excess that drew divine condemnation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Given its singular occurrence and uncertain derivation, direct linguistic cognates for פְּתִיגִיל are difficult to establish. However, it can be understood in relation to other Hebrew terms for garments, particularly those associated with luxury, status, or special occasions.
Concepts related to פְּתִיגִיל include:
* **Luxury Garments:** Other terms for fine or elaborate clothing, such as `{{H4594}}` (ma'aṭāphāh, "mantle" or "robe"), `{{H3801}}` (kuttōnet, "tunic," sometimes of fine material), or `{{H899}}` (beged, a general term for "garment," but can refer to fine attire).
* **Adornment and Jewelry:** The broader context of Isaiah 3 lists many items of female adornment, such as `{{H5716}}` (ādî, "ornament"), rings, nose jewels, bracelets, and veils. These items, like the פְּתִיגִיל, represent outward displays of wealth and status.
* **Festal Attire:** The idea of a "mantle for holidays" links it to the concept of garments worn for celebration or specific religious festivals, which were often distinct from everyday wear.
* **Pride and Vanity:** The theological context links פְּתִיגִיל to the broader concept of human pride and reliance on material possessions, a theme often condemned by the prophets.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of פְּתִיגִיל stems almost entirely from its solitary appearance in a passage of divine judgment. As a symbol of luxurious and possibly festive attire, it represents the outward show, vanity, and material excess that characterized the daughters of Zion. Its inclusion in the list of items to be stripped away highlights several key theological principles:
1. **Divine Judgment on Pride:** The removal of the פְּתִיגִיל, along with other adornments, serves as a stark visual metaphor for God's judgment against human pride and self-sufficiency. It underscores the prophetic message that reliance on worldly glory and outward beauty is fleeting and ultimately condemned by a righteous God.
2. **Reversal of Fortune:** The contrast between the fine garment and sackcloth powerfully illustrates the complete reversal of fortune that comes with divine discipline. What was once a source of pride and joy becomes a symbol of humiliation, mourning, and destitution.
3. **Transience of Worldly Possessions:** The fate of the פְּתִיגִיל serves as a reminder of the impermanence of all earthly wealth and status. Material possessions, no matter how valuable or beautiful, hold no ultimate significance in the face of God's sovereignty and judgment.
4. **Emphasis on Inward Piety:** By condemning the outward display of riches and beauty, the passage implicitly calls for a focus on inward spiritual condition rather than superficial adornment.
### Summary
פְּתִיגִיל (pᵉthîygîyl), Strong's number {{H6614}}`, refers to a luxury garment, likely a figured mantle or stomacher worn for special occasions, though its precise etymology remains uncertain. Its sole appearance in [[Isaiah 3:24]] places it firmly within a context of divine judgment against the pride and excess of the daughters of Zion. As an item of opulent adornment, its removal and replacement with sackcloth symbolize the profound humiliation, loss of status, and desolation that await those who rely on outward show rather than righteous living. Theologically, פְּתִיגִיל serves as a potent reminder of God's opposition to human vanity, the transience of worldly possessions, and the inevitable reversal of fortune for those who refuse to humble themselves before Him.
TRV