Old Testament

Isaiah 53:4

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

At a Glance

In Isaiah 53:4, the verse highlights the profound suffering of a figure often interpreted as the Messiah.

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

Yet he was the one carrying our griefs and bearing our sorrows. We assumed he was being punished — struck down by God and afflicted.

KJVKing James Version

Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Isaiah 53:4, the verse highlights the profound suffering of a figure often interpreted as the Messiah. This person is depicted as taking on the grief and pain of others, suggesting a deep empathy and sacrificial love. The people around him misinterpret his suffering, believing he is being punished by God for his own sins. However, the truth is that he bears the burdens of humanity, indicating that his affliction serves a greater purpose. This passage emphasizes the theme of vicarious suffering, where one suffers not for their own wrongs but for the sake of others. It invites readers to reflect on the nature of true sacrifice and the misunderstanding that often accompanies it. This verse sets the stage for understanding the redemptive work that this figure accomplishes through his suffering, which is central to the Christian faith.

How to apply Isaiah 53:4 to your life

This verse encourages us to recognize the burdens we carry and to understand that we are not alone in our suffering. It reminds us to support one another in times of grief and to appreciate the sacrifices made by others. We can find comfort in knowing that our pain is acknowledged and shared.

Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Isaiah 53:4 mean?

Isaiah 53:4 describes a figure who bears the grief and sorrows of others, often interpreted as the Messiah. It highlights the misunderstanding of his suffering, as people believe he is being punished by God, when in fact he is taking on the burdens of humanity.

What is the meaning of 'bore our griefs' in Isaiah 53:4?

'Bore our griefs' means that the figure described in Isaiah 53:4 takes on the emotional pain and suffering of others. This phrase emphasizes the idea of empathy and sacrificial love, suggesting that he suffers not for his own wrongs, but for the sake of others.

How does Isaiah 53:4 relate to the concept of sacrifice?

Isaiah 53:4 relates to sacrifice by portraying a figure who willingly endures suffering for the benefit of others. This highlights the idea that true sacrifice involves bearing the burdens of others, even when it is misunderstood by those around.

What themes are present in Isaiah 53:4?

Themes in Isaiah 53:4 include suffering, sacrifice, vicarious atonement, misunderstanding, redemption, grief, and sorrow. These themes emphasize the nature of true sacrifice and the shared experience of pain among humanity.

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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