Old Testament
Isaiah 53:3
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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.
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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.
What Isaiah 53:3 means
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.
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
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At a Glance — the Book of Isaiah
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
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.
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