In Isaiah 4:1, how many women shall take hold of one man?

The answer is rooted in the context of Isaiah 4:1, which presents a prophetic vision concerning the social conditions of the people in Israel, especially in the aftermath of judgment. In this verse, it suggests that in a time of great scarcity and upheaval, a significant number of women will seek to take hold of just one man, indicating a desperate desire for security, protection, and social status.

The number mentioned, seven, represents a notable exaggeration to illustrate the drastic societal changes where women will be vying for a single man's attention in hopes of being married or secured in a patriarchal society. This reflects the imbalance and turmoil experienced during that period, highlighting the dire consequences of the people's actions leading to societal collapse.

Furthermore, the number seven is often symbolic of completeness or perfection in biblical texts, which adds depth to the interpretation by suggesting an all-encompassing desire for stability. Thus, this choice accurately captures the intended meaning of the verse and its implications about the future state of the community depicted by Isaiah.