Stomacher
Artifactsâš¡ IN BRIEF (SUMMARY)
A stomacher is a triangular or V-shaped decorative panel worn by women in early modern Europe to fill the front opening of a gown. While this specific garment did not exist in the ancient Near East, the Hebrew term in Isaiah 3:24 is often translated as 'stomacher' in modern English Bibles to convey the concept of a decorative bodice ornament, despite the linguistic ambiguity regarding the exact original artifact.
What is the meaning of Stomacher in the Bible?
A stomacher is a triangular or V-shaped decorative panel worn by women in early modern Europe to fill the front opening of a gown. While this specific garment did not exist in the ancient Near East, the Hebrew term in Isaiah 3:24 is often translated as 'stomacher' in modern English Bibles to convey the concept of a decorative bodice ornament, despite the linguistic ambiguity regarding the exact original artifact.
SIGNIFICANCE
Recognizing that the 'stomacher' is an anachronistic translation helps readers understand that the biblical text describes a variety of ornamental accessories rather than a single specific garment. This clarification allows for a more accurate visualization of the prophetic imagery, emphasizing the comprehensive loss of female adornment and social status rather than focusing on a historically inaccurate piece of clothing.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
- Why did the biblical author mention Stomacher in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does Stomacher clarify?
Source Attribution & Provenance
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE) and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been editorially modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and formatted for fast contextual reference.