Old Testament
Isaiah 50:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Isaiah 50:6, the speaker describes a profound willingness to endure suffering and humiliation.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
I offered my back to those who beat me and my cheeks to those who ripped out my beard. I didn't hide my face from their mockery and spit.
I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Isaiah 50:6, the speaker describes a profound willingness to endure suffering and humiliation. The imagery of offering one's back to be beaten and cheeks to have hair plucked signifies a deep commitment to facing pain without resistance. This verse reflects the experience of someone who is unjustly treated yet chooses to accept this suffering rather than retaliate. The mention of mockery and spitting highlights the shame and scorn that often accompany such trials. This passage can be seen as a foreshadowing of the suffering servant, who embodies the ultimate sacrifice and endurance in the face of injustice. It emphasizes themes of resilience, humility, and the strength found in vulnerability, encouraging readers to reflect on their own responses to adversity and how they can embody grace in difficult situations.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 50:6 to your life
This verse encourages us to respond to mistreatment with grace rather than retaliation. In our daily lives, we may face ridicule or unfair treatment. Instead of reacting with anger, we can choose to endure with dignity, reflecting the strength of character and faith in our responses.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 50:6 mean?
Isaiah 50:6 expresses a willingness to endure suffering and humiliation without resistance. The speaker offers their back to be beaten and their cheeks to be harmed, symbolizing a commitment to face pain and injustice with dignity.
What is the significance of mockery in Isaiah 50:6?
The mention of mockery in Isaiah 50:6 highlights the shame and scorn that often accompany suffering. It emphasizes the depth of humiliation faced by the speaker, who chooses to accept this treatment rather than retaliate.
How does Isaiah 50:6 relate to themes of endurance?
Isaiah 50:6 illustrates endurance by showing the speaker's resolve to withstand pain and humiliation. This reflects a strong character that chooses to face adversity without giving in to anger or revenge.
What is the context of Isaiah 50:6?
Isaiah 50:6 is part of a passage that describes the suffering servant, who embodies resilience in the face of injustice. It serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the choice to endure rather than fight back.
The Book of Isaiah
Isaiah 41: Fear Not, I Am With You
The LORD calls the nations to keep silence before him and to renew their strength. He asks who raises up the righteous man from the east and gives nations before him, making him rule over kings. He says he gives them as dust to his sword and as driven stubble to his bow, and he declares he is the first and with the last.
Unlock the full Isaiah summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Isaiah — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 66 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Isaiah summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.