Isaiah 11:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 11:2
2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;
Chapter Context
Isaiah 11 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of faith, love, wisdom. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-16: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 11:2
2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;
Analysis
The Spirit's sevenfold anointing of Messiah is described: the Spirit of the Lord (divine presence), wisdom and understanding (supernatural insight), counsel and might (strength and guidance), knowledge and fear of the Lord (relationship and reverence). This comprehensive anointing equips Messiah perfectly for His role. The Spirit 'resting' upon Him indicates permanent indwelling, not temporary empowerment. This prophesies Jesus's Spirit-empowerment from conception through ministry, fulfilling all righteousness.
Historical Context
Fulfilled when the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus at baptism (Matthew 3:16) and remained on Him throughout ministry. Jesus's wisdom amazed teachers (Luke 2:47), His counsel was perfect (John 7:46), His might evident in miracles, His knowledge of the Father complete (Matthew 11:27), His fear of the Lord demonstrated in perfect obedience. The sevenfold Spirit became a Messianic identification marker—only Jesus perfectly manifests all these qualities.
Reflection
- How does the Spirit's sevenfold anointing equip Jesus perfectly for His mediatorial role?
- What does it mean that the Spirit 'rests' on Christ permanently rather than temporarily?
- How do we as believers share in this Spirit through our union with Christ?
Word Studies
- Spirit: רוּחַ (Ruach) H7307 - Spirit, wind, breath
Cross-References
- Spirit: Isaiah 42:1, 48:16, 59:21, 61:1, Matthew 3:16, John 3:34
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 1:30