Old Testament

Isaiah 53:3

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

Isaiah 53:3 describes a figure who is deeply rejected and looked down upon by people.

Author
Isaiah the prophet
Written
Around 700 BC
Genre
Prophecy
Original Audience
Judah and the surrounding nations
CBTClear Bible Translation

He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, familiar with grief. We hid our faces from him; he was despised, and we did not value him.

KJVKing James Version

He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

Isaiah 53:3 describes a figure who is deeply rejected and looked down upon by people. This person is characterized as someone who experiences profound sorrow and is well-acquainted with grief, indicating a life filled with suffering. The phrase 'we hid our faces from him' suggests that people turned away from him, either out of shame or disdain, failing to recognize his true worth. The repetition of 'despised' emphasizes the extent of this rejection. This verse highlights the contrast between how society views this individual and the reality of his significance and suffering. It serves as a poignant reminder of how often true value and pain are overlooked by others, pointing to a deeper understanding of compassion and empathy for those who suffer.

Key themes

Related topics

rejection, suffering, grief

How to apply Isaiah 53:3 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize and empathize with those who are marginalized or suffering. It challenges us to look beyond societal judgments and to value individuals for their inherent worth, reminding us to offer compassion and support to those in pain.

Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Isaiah 53:3 mean?

Isaiah 53:3 describes a figure who is deeply rejected and looked down upon by people, characterized by sorrow and grief. It highlights the contrast between societal rejection and the true significance of this individual, emphasizing the pain of being overlooked.

What is the meaning of 'despised' in Isaiah 53:3?

In Isaiah 53:3, 'despised' refers to being scorned or regarded with contempt by others. This term underscores the extent of rejection faced by the figure in the verse, illustrating how society fails to recognize his true worth.

How does Isaiah 53:3 relate to compassion?

Isaiah 53:3 encourages readers to empathize with those who are marginalized or suffering. It challenges us to look beyond societal judgments and to offer compassion and support to individuals in pain.

What themes are present in Isaiah 53:3?

The themes present in Isaiah 53:3 include rejection, suffering, grief, and the importance of recognizing true value. It emphasizes compassion for those who are despised and overlooked by society.

The Book of Isaiah
Book Summary

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.

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