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.
In their streets they will wrap themselves in rough cloth used for mourning. On their rooftops and in their streets, everyone will cry out in anguish, weeping heavily.
This verse describes a scene of overwhelming grief and mourning throughout an entire city, with people publicly expressing their deep sorrow.
📚 Historical Context
This verse is part of Isaiah's prophecy about the destruction of Moab, a nation east of the Dead Sea that was often in conflict with Israel. The prophet describes how the Moabites would respond to coming judgment with traditional expressions of grief - wearing sackcloth (rough burlap-like material) and public mourning. In ancient Middle Eastern culture, mourning was often done publicly on rooftops where people could be seen and heard.
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