Old Testament

Isaiah 4:1

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Isaiah 4:1, the prophet describes a future time of desperation for women in Israel.

Author: Isaiah the prophet
Written: Around 700 BC
Genre: Prophecy
Original Audience: Judah and the surrounding nations

CBTClear Bible Translation

When that day comes, 7 women will grab hold of one man and say, "We'll provide our own food and our own clothing — just let us carry your name. Take away our disgrace."

KJVKing James Version

And in that day seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and wear our own apparel: only let us be called by thy name, to take away our reproach.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Isaiah 4:1, the prophet describes a future time of desperation for women in Israel. With a shortage of men due to war or societal collapse, seven women will seek to marry one man, offering to provide for themselves in exchange for his name. This reflects a cultural shift where women, traditionally dependent on men for security, are willing to forgo traditional roles to escape shame and disgrace. The desire to carry a man's name signifies a longing for social acceptance and stability in a time of crisis. This verse highlights the dire circumstances faced by the people and the lengths they will go to restore their dignity and societal standing. It also serves as a commentary on the consequences of sin and judgment, as the societal structure is disrupted, leading to such desperate measures.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Isaiah 4:1 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on our own societal values and the importance of dignity and identity. In times of crisis, we may need to adapt and find new ways to support ourselves and others. It reminds us to seek meaningful connections that provide stability and honor.

Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Isaiah 4:1 mean?

Isaiah 4:1 describes a future time of desperation where women seek to marry one man due to a shortage of men, offering to provide for themselves in exchange for his name. This reflects a cultural shift in response to societal collapse and highlights the lengths people will go to restore their dignity.

What is the significance of seven women in Isaiah 4:1?

The mention of seven women symbolizes a significant imbalance in gender roles during a time of crisis, where many women are left without husbands due to war or societal breakdown. It emphasizes the desperation and societal changes occurring in that period.

What does 'carry your name' mean in Isaiah 4:1?

'Carry your name' refers to the desire of women to be associated with a man for social acceptance and stability. In the context of the verse, it signifies their longing to escape shame and gain a sense of identity during difficult times.

What is the context of Isaiah 4:1?

Isaiah 4:1 is set in a time of judgment and crisis for Israel, where societal structures are disrupted. The verse illustrates the desperation faced by women as they seek to secure their place in a collapsing society.

Book Summary

The Book of Isaiah

Isaiah 41: Fear Not, I Am With You

The LORD calls the nations to keep silence before him and to renew their strength. He asks who raises up the righteous man from the east and gives nations before him, making him rule over kings. He says he gives them as dust to his sword and as driven stubble to his bow, and he declares he is the first and with the last.

The isles see and fear, and the ends of the earth draw near. Craftsmen encourage one another and strengthen idols with nails so they do not move. The LORD then speaks directly to Israel, calling him his servant, the seed of Abraham his friend. He tells Israel not to fear, for he is with him, and says he strengthens, helps, and upholds him with the right hand of his righteousness. He promises those who contend with Israel are as nothing, makes Israel a new sharp threshing instrument that threshes mountains, and answers the poor and needy by making rivers in high places and fountains in valleys. Isaiah 42: Behold My Servant The LORD presents his servant, whom he upholds and in whom his soul delights. He says he puts his spirit upon him and that he brings forth judgment to the Gentiles, not crying or lifting up his voice in the streets, and not breaking a bruised reed. The LORD says he calls him in righteousness, holds his hand, keeps him, and gives him for a covenant of the people and a light of the Gentiles. The LORD declares his glory he does not give to another nor his praise to graven images. He speaks of new things before they spring forth and calls for a new song from the ends of the earth. The chapter describes the LORD going forth as a mighty man and crying out against his enemies. It describes a people robbed and spoiled, snared in holes, yet not saying, “Restore,” and it says they do not lay it to heart. The LORD pours upon them fury of his anger and the strength of battle, yet they do not know or consider.

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