Isaiah 11:5
And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.
Original Language Analysis
וְהָ֥יָה
H1961
וְהָ֥יָה
Strong's:
H1961
Word #:
1 of 7
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
צֶ֖דֶק
And righteousness
H6664
צֶ֖דֶק
And righteousness
Strong's:
H6664
Word #:
2 of 7
the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity
מָתְנָ֑יו
of his loins
H4975
מָתְנָ֑יו
of his loins
Strong's:
H4975
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, the waist or small of the back; only in plural the loins
וְהָאֱמוּנָ֖ה
and faithfulness
H530
וְהָאֱמוּנָ֖ה
and faithfulness
Strong's:
H530
Word #:
5 of 7
literally firmness; figuratively security; morally fidelity
Cross References
Ephesians 6:14Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;1 John 1:9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.Isaiah 59:17For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloke.Isaiah 25:1O LORD, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.2 Corinthians 6:7By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
Historical Context
Jesus perfectly embodied righteousness and faithfulness throughout earthly ministry—tempted yet sinless (Hebrews 4:15), perfectly obedient to the Father (John 8:29), faithful unto death (Philippians 2:8). His righteousness qualifies Him to be our substitute; His faithfulness ensures He completes salvation. This perfect character made Him the worthy Lamb (Revelation 5:9) and qualified High Priest (Hebrews 7:26).
Questions for Reflection
- How does Christ's perfect righteousness provide the basis for our justification?
- What does Christ's faithfulness guarantee about the completion of our salvation?
- How should we as believers put on righteousness and faithfulness in imitation of Christ?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Righteousness and faithfulness are Messiah's clothing—His essential characteristics, not merely external qualities. The belt/girdle held garments together for work and battle, suggesting these virtues equip Christ for His mission. 'Righteousness' (perfect conformity to God's law) and 'faithfulness' (unwavering commitment to God's purposes) define His character completely. Unlike human leaders whose integrity wavers, Christ's righteousness and faithfulness never fail. This describes the Messiah's perfect qualification to save and judge.