Isaiah 53:12
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 53:12
12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 53 is a suffering servant oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of hope, grace, discipleship. 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 53:12
12 Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
Analysis
'Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.' Victory language: portion, spoil - the Servant triumphs. Four reasons: poured out soul unto death, numbered with transgressors, bore sin of many, made intercession. Jesus quoted 'numbered with transgressors' (Luke 22:37).
Historical Context
This final verse summarizes the Servant's work: sacrificial death, identification with sinners, sin-bearing, and ongoing intercession. The victory is complete; the triumph assured.
Reflection
- How does the Servant's suffering lead to ultimate triumph?
- What does ongoing intercession for transgressors mean for your confidence before God?
Word Studies
- Sin: חַטָּאת (Chatta'ah) H2399 - Sin, missing the mark
Cross-References
- Sin: Isaiah 53:6, Titus 2:14, Hebrews 9:26, 9:28, 12:2, 1 John 2:12
- Creation: Hebrews 9:24
- Parallel theme: Mark 15:27, Luke 22:37, Romans 8:34