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22 The
changeable suits of apparel, [machalatsah] and the mantles, [ma`ataphah] and the wimples, [mitpachath] and the
crisping pins, [chariyt] KJV-Interlinear
The prior verses were descriptions of ornaments, and now Isaiah changes to descriptions of entire suits of clothing and apparel.
Changeable suits, 'machalatsah,' refers to clothing that is pulled off and thus changed from one set of clothes to another set of clothes. This is primarily a reference to more fashionable clothing, more expensive clothing, not common everyday wear, but clothing that is worn on special occasions.
This would apply to someone who has several sets of clothing, to someone who has invested a great deal of time and money in acquiring many sets of clothing. This also implies a status symbol in the owning of many fashionable sets of apparel, as well as the constant changing of appearance tailored for some specific or changing audience. Different day, different audience, different look.
Mantles, 'ma ataphah,' means to cover, to clothe. This is a piece of clothing that is put on over other clothes, like an outer robe or tunic or coat of sorts, yet these are typically full length from head to foot.
Wimples, 'mitpachath,' refers typically a cloak for the female. It is a hood or veil, and again a piece of clothing that covers over the top of all other clothing, such as in a full length hooded coat. It is also referred to as a wrap around in which one could take a nap or sleep while wearing it. It is a comfort outer garment. It can also be used to hide ones identity.
Crisping pins, 'chariyt,' refers to purses or large money bags usually attached to the waist, in which valuables were carried.
Now, while the articles of jewelry served to decorate the individual, the clothing serves to cover over all that is remaining, or the entire body.
Isaiah continues to list the things that have been given more importance than ones own self. Namely the external or outer aspects of the body, rather than the inner real self, which is the soul.
People will expend great sums of time and money and effort (many changes), in order make themselves presentable, clever, dignified, appropriate, better than they really are. Outside are the temporary things, articles of clothing, while inside where the real person resides, is the real look, the real substance, or rather lack of it, the hidden self.
The clothing offers a convenient disguise and deception in so far as other people are concerned. People judge based on the outward appearance. The opinions of people amount to nothing.
But the real judge is God, and it is His judgment (evaluation) which will determine your eternal future.
Gods judgment is not of a fashion show, but of the soul.
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