Israel was choosing her own way over God’s. Isaiah 4:1 sounds strange, but appears to be a turning point,
“And seven women shall take hold of one man in that day, saying,
‘We will eat our own bread and wear our own clothes,
only let us be called by your name;
take away our reproach.’”
What about remaining single? Historical and cultural implications aside, this is the Word of God, so let’s dig in.
These women aren’t looking for food or clothing, but a name that removes shame. Above all, we humans need our shame removed. We try to hide our sin, but in truth, it’s still there. We try to convince ourselves it’s not sin; maybe demand others agree. But our reproach isn’t gone, even if the whole world says there is no shame in our sin.
“For many, of whom I have often told you
and now tell you even with tears,
walk as enemies of the cross of Christ.
Their end is destruction,
their god is their belly,
and they glory in their shame,
with minds set on earthly things.”
Philippians 3:18-19
But of the ones desperate for true cleansing, Isaiah 4:2 says,
“In that day the branch of the LORD shall be beautiful and glorious,
and the fruit of the land shall be the pride and honor of the survivors of Israel.”
Jesus is the Branch. He’s the only Man whose name is able to remove shame and is enough for all of us. I think “seven” represents completion – seven women desperate for that name. When the times are complete, the entire Bride of Christ will be gathered to her Groom, named by Him, complete in Him, joyfully free from shame – because their eyes were open to see their need for salvation.