ישעיהו, פרק ג׳, פסוק כ׳

The wealthy women of Jerusalem adorned themselves with an extensive array of luxury jewelry and clothing, layering decorations from their heads down to their feet. This lavish collection included a wide variety of accessories, ranging from elaborate headpieces to delicate leg chains and mystical amulets.

At the top of this display were fancy head coverings, resembling tall hats or delicate crowns [רש״י, מצודת ציון, רד״ק, שד״ל, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. However, another perspective suggests these ornaments were actually jewelry worn on the hands or arms, reflecting a sense of beauty and glory [אבן עזרא]. To secure their hair, the women used short silk ribbons and threads, which were sometimes beautifully woven with gold [רש״י, מצודת ציון, רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Others identify these ties as jewelry fastened tightly around the throat [אבן עזרא], while some note that their exact nature remains somewhat of a mystery [שד״ל].

Moving downward, the women wore specialized chains. The primary approach among commentators is that these were ornaments fastened around the lower legs. These leg chains intentionally restricted the women's steps, forcing a careful, measured, and perfectly even walk that became a distinct source of pride [שד״ל]. Alternatively, some scholars believe these were large rings and bracelets worn on the upper arms [אבן עזרא, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Other adornments were directly associated with the soul, leading to two main explanations. One approach suggests these were gold pieces or inner garments resting on the chest. Since the chest houses the heart, which is considered the dwelling place of the soul, the items worn there adopted this spiritual association [רש״י, מצודת ציון, רד״ק, אבן עזרא, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. A second approach explains that these were small pendants or boxes filled with perfume, named for the deep pleasure the soul derives from a good scent [שד״ל, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

Finally, the collection featured items connected to the concept of whispering. Most commentators explain that these were earrings, named naturally for the ear's role in receiving whispers [רש״י, מצודת ציון, רד״ק, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Another interpretation views them as amulets engraved with whispered incantations. Crafted from silver plates, gold, or precious stones, these charms were worn on the neck or ears, and the general public often attributed a sense of holiness to them [אבן עזרא, שד״ל, ביאור שטיינזלץ].