The term "deckedst" is an archaic form of the verb "deck," which means to adorn, decorate, or embellish. In the context of the Bible, it often refers to the act of adorning oneself or something else with ornaments or fine apparel. This term is primarily found in older translations of the Bible, such as the King James Version, but the concept is present in various passages throughout Scripture.

Biblical Usage and Context

1. Adorning with Jewelry and Fine Apparel: The act of decking oneself is often associated with the use of jewelry, fine clothing, and other adornments. This is seen in the context of both positive and negative connotations. For instance, in Ezekiel 16:11-13 , God describes how He adorned Jerusalem with fine clothing and jewelry as a symbol of His blessing and favor: "I adorned you with jewelry, and I put bracelets on your wrists and a chain around your neck. I put a ring in your nose, earrings on your ears, and a beautiful crown upon your head. So you were adorned with gold and silver, and your clothing was of fine linen, silk, and embroidered cloth."

2. Symbol of Idolatry and Unfaithfulness: Conversely, decking oneself can also symbolize idolatry and spiritual unfaithfulness. In Ezekiel 23:40 , the prophet condemns the people for adorning themselves in preparation for idolatrous practices: "Furthermore, you sent for men who came from far away. When they arrived, you bathed yourself for them, painted your eyes, and adorned yourself with jewelry."

3. Metaphorical Use: The concept of decking is also used metaphorically to describe the beautification or enhancement of something. In Revelation 18:16 , the fall of Babylon is lamented, and her former splendor is described: "Woe, woe to the great city, clothed in fine linen and purple and scarlet, adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls!"

Theological Implications

The use of "deckedst" and its related concepts in Scripture often carries deeper theological implications. Adornment can be a symbol of God's blessing and favor, as seen in the positive portrayal of Jerusalem's adornment. However, it can also represent vanity, pride, and spiritual infidelity when associated with idolatry and moral corruption.

In the New Testament, the emphasis shifts from external adornment to inner beauty and character. 1 Peter 3:3-4 advises, "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment such as braided hair or gold jewelry or fine clothes, but from the inner disposition of your heart, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight."

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, adornment with jewelry and fine clothing was a common practice, often signifying wealth, status, and divine favor. The biblical authors used this cultural understanding to convey spiritual truths, contrasting the temporary and superficial nature of physical adornment with the enduring value of spiritual integrity and faithfulness to God.

Conclusion

The concept of "deckedst" in the Bible serves as a powerful metaphor for both divine blessing and human folly. It challenges believers to consider the source of their beauty and worth, urging them to seek the adornment of a godly character over external appearances.Deckedst (2 Occurrences)

Ezekiel 16:16
And of thy garments thou didst take, and deckedst thy high places with divers colours, and playedst the harlot thereupon: the like things shall not come, neither shall it be so.
(KJV)

Ezekiel 23:40
And furthermore, that ye have sent for men to come from far, unto whom a messenger was sent; and, lo, they came: for whom thou didst wash thyself, paintedst thy eyes, and deckedst thyself with ornaments,
(KJV DBY)

Deckedst (2 Occurrences)
... Multi-Version Concordance Deckedst (2 Occurrences). Ezekiel 16:16 And of
thy garments thou didst take, and deckedst thy high places ...
/d/deckedst.htm - 7k

Decked (10 Occurrences)
... for men to come from far, unto whom a messenger was sent; and, lo, they came: for
whom thou didst wash thyself, paintedst thy eyes, and deckedst thyself with ...
/d/decked.htm - 9k

Thereupon (22 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 16:16 And of thy garments thou didst take, and deckedst thy high places
with divers colours, and playedst the harlot thereupon: the like things shall ...
/t/thereupon.htm - 12k

Deckest (1 Occurrence)

/d/deckest.htm - 6k

Deck (8 Occurrences)
... for men to come from far, unto whom a messenger was sent; and, lo, they came: for
whom thou didst wash thyself, paintedst thy eyes, and deckedst thyself with ...
/d/deck.htm - 9k

Playedst (2 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 16:16 And of thy garments thou didst take, and deckedst thy high places
with divers colours, and playedst the harlot thereupon: the like things shall ...
/p/playedst.htm - 7k

Paintedst (1 Occurrence)
... for men to come from far, unto whom a messenger was sent; and, lo, they came: for
whom thou didst wash thyself, paintedst thy eyes, and deckedst thyself with ...
/p/paintedst.htm - 6k

Painted (4 Occurrences)
... for men to come from far, unto whom a messenger was sent; and, lo, they came: for
whom thou didst wash thyself, paintedst thy eyes, and deckedst thyself with ...
/p/painted.htm - 7k

Colours (20 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 16:16 And of thy garments thou didst take, and deckedst thy high places
with divers colours, and playedst the harlot thereupon: the like things shall ...
/c/colours.htm - 12k

Colour (22 Occurrences)
... Ezekiel 16:16 And of thy garments thou didst take, and deckedst thy high places
with divers colours, and playedst the harlot thereupon: the like things shall ...
/c/colour.htm - 21k

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