Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.
ISAIAH 63:1KJVWhat does Isaiah 63:1 mean?
Isaiah 63:1 pictures a powerful figure coming from Edom, specifically from Bozrah, wearing striking, dyed garments. The verse asks who this majestic person is, and the answer comes: it is the one who speaks in righteousness and is mighty to save.
In this verse, the prophet Isaiah sets up a dramatic scene, almost like a dialogue. Someone sees a figure approaching from Edom (a nation southeast of Israel, often seen as an enemy), and asks about his identity and appearance. The answer reveals that this is not just any traveler, but someone glorious and strong, who claims to act with righteousness and has the power to save.
The Hebrew behind Isaiah 63:1
- "Edom" (אֱדוֹם, Edom) and "Bozrah" (בָּצְרָה, Bozrah) are real places southeast of Israel, often symbolizing opposition or judgment in prophetic writings. Mentioning them sets a tone of confrontation or victory over enemies.
- "Dyed" (חָמוּץ, chamuts) refers to garments stained or colored, hinting at something dramatic—possibly blood, as the following verses make clear. This detail adds a sense of intensity and purpose to the figure’s appearance.
- "Glorious" (הָדָר, hadar) and "apparel" (לְבוּשׁ, levush) emphasize not just the figure’s strength but also his majesty and dignity, suggesting this is someone of great importance, not an ordinary person.
- "Mighty" (רַב, rav) and "save" (יָשַׁע, yasha) together stress that the speaker is not only strong but also able to rescue or deliver, highlighting both power and purpose.
Why Isaiah 63:1 matters
- This verse clears up that the figure is not a random traveler but someone with authority and a mission, described as righteous and able to save.
- The mention of Edom and Bozrah connects the verse to themes of judgment and deliverance found throughout Isaiah, setting the stage for the rest of the chapter’s message.
- The vivid description of the garments and the dialogue format draw attention to the significance of what this person has done and is about to explain, inviting the reader to pay close attention to the following verses.