Isaiah 53:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 53:1
1 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?
Chapter Context
Isaiah 53 is a suffering servant oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, holiness, creation. 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
This chapter is significant because it provides the clearest Old Testament prophecy of the Messiah's suffering. 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 53:1
1 Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?
Analysis
'Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed?' The chapter opens with prophetic lamentation over widespread unbelief. The Hebrew 'shemu'ah' (report/message) is literally 'what we have heard.' The 'arm of the LORD' - divine power in salvation - remains hidden to most. John 12:38 and Romans 10:16 cite this to explain Jewish rejection of Jesus.
Historical Context
This verse introduces the fourth Servant Song (52:13-53:12). Paul uses it to explain why not all Israel believed the gospel - faith is a gift, and the 'arm' is revealed to whom God chooses.
Reflection
- Why does saving truth remain unbelieved by many?
- How is God's arm revealed to you in the gospel?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- Faith: John 1:7, 1:12, 12:38
- References Lord: Isaiah 40:5, 51:9, 62:8, Matthew 11:25
- Parallel theme: Matthew 16:17, 1 Corinthians 1:18, 1:24