רְעָלָה (ra.a.lah)
ra.a.lah
veil
H:N-FQuick Reference
- Language
- Biblical Hebrew
- Testament
- Old Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
- Part of speech
- H:N-F
Word Overview
The Hebrew noun re‘alah refers to a veil or head covering, appearing only once in the Old Testament at Isaiah 3:19. In that verse, it is listed among the elaborate ornaments worn by the daughters of Zion, suggesting a garment made of fine fabric or decorated with precious materials.
Its meaning is inferred from context and related roots rather than explicit definition. As part of a catalog of luxury items, it highlights the social status and vanity of the women addressed by the prophet. The word underscores the cultural importance of modesty markers and decorative attire in ancient Israelite society.
Translators typically render re‘alah as "veil" or "headscarf," reflecting its function as a covering for the head. This single occurrence provides limited insight into its physical form, but its placement among other accessories confirms its role as an item of personal adornment and social distinction.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word re‘alah appears just once in Scripture, nestled within a list of fine jewelry and garments in Isaiah 3:19. It describes a veil or head covering worn by women of status in ancient Israel. This single mention reminds us that how we present ourselves has always carried weight, reflecting both our culture and our inner values.
For your faith life today, this word invites reflection on modesty and humility. While the text criticizes vanity, it also acknowledges the cultural importance of adornment. You might consider how your choices reflect a heart that honors God more than public approval. True beauty often lies in simplicity and sincerity rather than expensive accessories.
Let this passage encourage you to focus on character over appearance. The Bible consistently calls believers to inner purity, which shines through regardless of external fashion. May you find peace in knowing your worth is secure in Christ, not in what you wear.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- and/ the/ veils1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- וְ/הָֽ/רְעָלֽוֹת\׃1×
Key Verses
-
Isaiah 3:19
the earrings, the bracelets, the veils,
This verse lists the veil among other luxury items to illustrate the pride and vanity of Jerusalem's women before judgment.