Isaiah 15:3
In their streets they shall gird themselves with sackcloth: on the tops of their houses, and in their streets, every one shall howl, weeping abundantly.
Isaiah 15:3 · King James Version
Meaning
Symbolism plays a significant role in this verse, as the act of girding oneself with sackcloth and howling expresses deep mourning and repentance. The mention of wearing sackcloth in the streets and atop houses signifies a public display of sadness and humility before God. Sackcloth was a coarse material traditionally worn during times of mourning or penitence in ancient times, serving as a physical reminder of one's need for repentance and reconciliation. Additionally, the act of howling loudly in the streets conveys a sense of intense sorrow and lamentation. This verse highlights the importance of acknowledging one's sin and turning to God in humility and repentance, seeking His forgiveness and grace. It serves as a powerful reminder of the need for sincere repentance and a contrite heart in the face of sin and disobedience.
Theological Overview
One possible theological interpretation of this verse can be understood in the context of mourning and repentance. The act of girding oneself with sackcloth was a common practice in the ancient Near East as a sign of mourning and humility before God. The mention of howling and weeping abundantly further emphasizes the deep sorrow and repentance that the people are experiencing. By doing so both in their houses and in the streets, the people are demonstrating a full acknowledgment of their sinfulness and a desire for reconciliation with God.
Additionally, a word study of the term "sackcloth" reveals that it was typically made from coarse material like goat hair and was uncomfortable to wear. This discomfort served as a physical reminder of the need for repentance and humility. The mention of howling can be seen as a vocal expression of grief and remorse, while weeping abundantly signifies the depth of sorrow being experienced. These actions are not merely for show but are genuine expressions of the people's contrition before God.
Overall, this verse highlights the importance of genuine repentance and humility before God. It serves as a reminder of the need to acknowledge sinfulness and seek forgiveness through heartfelt mourning and a desire for reconciliation with God.
Isaiah 15:3 in other translations
American Standard Version
In their streets they gird themselves with sackcloth; on their housetops, and in their broad places, every one waileth, weeping abundantly.
World English Bible
In their streets, they clothe themselves in sackcloth. In their streets and on their housetops, everyone wails, weeping abundantly.
Douay-Rheims
In their streets they are girded with sackcloth: on the tops of their houses, and in their streets all shall howl and come down weeping.
Geneva Bible (1599)
In their streetes shall they bee gilded with sackecloth: on the toppes of their houses, and in their streetes euery one shall howle, and come downe with weeping.