Isaiah 63:9
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 63:9
9 In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them: in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; and he bare them, and carried them all the days of old.
Chapter Context
Isaiah 63 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of righteousness, mercy, faith. 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 13-19: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 63:9
9 In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them: in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; and he bare them, and carried them all the days of old.
Analysis
'In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them: in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; and he bare them, and carried them all the days of old.' The Hebrew 'tsar' (affliction) God shares. He doesn't observe suffering from distance but enters into it. The angel of His presence suggests divine presence in redemptive action.
Historical Context
This sympathetic suffering points to incarnation - God fully entering human affliction in Christ. The 'angel of his presence' anticipates Christ as the exact representation of God's being.
Reflection
- How does God's sharing in your affliction comfort you?
- What does it mean that God has 'carried' His people through history?
Word Studies
- Love: אַהֲבָה / חֶסֶד (Ahavah / Chesed) H160 - Love / Loyal-love
Cross-References
- Love: Revelation 1:5
- Parallel theme: Exodus 14:19, 19:4, 33:14, Deuteronomy 1:31, Judges 10:16, Psalms 78:38