The Hebrew word talbôsheth, represented by H8516, is a term for a garment; clothing. Derived from the root word to clothe, lâbash H3847, its meaning is tied to the act of putting on apparel. It appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse, making its significance highly specific to its singular context.
The sole use of H8516 is found in Isaiah 59:17, within a powerful description of God preparing for judgment. The verse portrays God as a warrior arming Himself with divine attributes. He puts on righteousness as a breastplate H8302 and a helmet H3553 of salvation H3444 on His head H7218. In this context, talbôsheth is the specific word used for the clothing of divine retribution: "and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing" Isaiah 59:17.
The meaning of H8516 is illuminated by the words used alongside it in its only appearance:
- H3847 lâbash: The root verb, meaning "to put on a garment or clothe (oneself, or another), literally or figuratively." It is used twice in the verse, emphasizing the deliberate act of God arming Himself Isaiah 59:17.
- H899 beged: A general term for a garment or "clothing." The passage states that God put on the "garments" of vengeance, which serve as His talbôsheth (clothing) Isaiah 59:17.
- H5359 nâqâm: This word for vengeance describes the very substance of the clothing, denoting "revenge" or a "quarrel" that is being avenged.
- H4598 mᵉʻîyl: A term for a robe or "cloke." In the same verse, God was "clad with zeal as a cloke," showing another layer of His divine apparel Isaiah 59:17.
The theological significance of H8516 is entirely contained within its powerful, metaphorical use in Isaiah.
- The Divine Warrior: The term contributes to the imagery of God as a divine warrior who dresses for battle. The clothing H8516 is an essential part of His armor, along with the helmet H3553 and breastplate H8302 Isaiah 59:17.
- Figurative Apparel: The passage demonstrates how abstract concepts are personified as apparel. Vengeance H5359 is not just an act but becomes the very clothing H8516 He wears to execute judgment.
- Righteous Judgment: The specific use of H8516 for clothing of vengeance, paired with a cloke of zeal H7068 and a breastplate of righteousness H6666, underscores that God's action is a passionate and just response to sin Isaiah 59:17.
In summary, talbôsheth H8516 is a highly specific term for clothing. Its single appearance in the Bible defines its entire meaning as a piece of figurative, divine armor. It is uniquely identified as the "clothing of vengeance," working alongside other items like the breastplate of righteousness and the helmet of salvation. The word powerfully illustrates how God's character and actions—such as vengeance and zeal—can be depicted as the garments He puts on to enact justice.
TRV