Modesty – ya’al

The English word modesty comes from the Latin modus which refers to one who sets a limit or does not swing to extremes. Although the English word appears one time in the KJV text, its meaning in Greek would not be the same as our understanding of modesty. The better word in Greek would be epieikes translated as moderation. The equivalent word in biblical Hebrew is ya’al, usually translated as to be content. A modest person, or one who practices moderation, does not leap at the latest trends or dress to allure or speak to attract attention.

Shofetiym (Judges) 19:6And they sat down, and did eat and drink both of them together: for the damsel's father had said unto the man, Be content, I pray thee, and tarry all night, and let thine heart be merry.


1 Timothy 2:9In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;


Philippians 4:4-6Rejoice in the Master alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Master is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Shalom Alecheim!