Old Testament
Isaiah 53:5
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
Isaiah 53:5 speaks about the suffering servant, who is understood to be a prophetic reference to Jesus Christ.
- Author
- Isaiah the prophet
- Written
- Around 700 BC
- Genre
- Prophecy
- Original Audience
- Judah and the surrounding nations
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the punishment that brought us peace was upon him; and by his wounds we are healed.
But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
Plain Meaning
The servant described in this chapter suffered — was wounded and crushed — not because of anything he did wrong, but to pay the penalty for the wrongs of others. 'Transgressions' means deliberate rebellions; 'iniquities' means moral failures. 'The chastisement of our peace' means the punishment that was required to make us right with God fell on him instead of us. 'With his stripes we are healed' — the beatings he received brought healing to those whose guilt he carried.
Read It in Context
Verse 4 just said that onlookers assumed this servant was being punished by God for his own sins. Verse 5 corrects that: the suffering was real, but the reason was entirely different — he was bearing the guilt of others, not his own.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Isaiah 53:5 and any verse in the Bible.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
Isaiah 53:5 speaks about the suffering servant, who is understood to be a prophetic reference to Jesus Christ. This verse highlights that he endured pain and punishment not for his own sins, but for the wrongdoings of humanity. The terms 'wounded' and 'bruised' indicate deep physical and emotional suffering. The 'punishment that brought us peace' suggests that his suffering was necessary for reconciliation between God and people, providing a pathway to spiritual peace. The phrase 'by his wounds we are healed' emphasizes the idea that through his suffering, believers can find healing, both spiritually and physically. This verse encapsulates the core message of redemption and sacrifice, illustrating how the servant's pain leads to the restoration of others, fulfilling God's plan for salvation.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Isaiah 53:5 to your life
This verse encourages believers to reflect on the depth of Christ's sacrifice and its implications for their lives. It reminds us that our struggles and sins can be addressed through faith in Jesus, who offers healing and peace. Embracing this truth can transform our understanding of suffering and forgiveness.
Curated for this public verse page. Isaiah Summary · Isaiah 53:5 Meaning
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Isaiah 53:5 mean?
Isaiah 53:5 describes the suffering servant who bears the pain and punishment for humanity's sins. It emphasizes that his suffering leads to peace and healing for others, highlighting the concept of redemption.
What is the significance of 'wounded' and 'bruised' in Isaiah 53:5?
The terms 'wounded' and 'bruised' in Isaiah 53:5 signify the deep physical and emotional suffering endured by the servant. This suffering is portrayed as a necessary sacrifice for the wrongdoings of humanity.
What does 'by his wounds we are healed' mean in Isaiah 53:5?
The phrase 'by his wounds we are healed' indicates that through the suffering of the servant, believers can find both spiritual and physical healing. It underscores the transformative power of his sacrifice.
How does Isaiah 53:5 relate to Jesus?
Isaiah 53:5 is often interpreted as a prophetic reference to Jesus Christ, illustrating how his suffering and sacrifice fulfill the promise of redemption for humanity's sins.
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