Isaiah 11:10

KJV

¶ And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious.

KJV (with Strong's)

And in that day {H3117} there shall be a root {H8328} of Jesse {H3448}, which shall stand {H5975} for an ensign {H5251} of the people {H5971}; to it shall the Gentiles {H1471} seek {H1875}: and his rest {H4496} shall be glorious {H3519}.

Complete Jewish Bible

On that day the root of Yishai, which stands as a banner for the peoples - the Goyim will seek him out, and the place where he rests will be glorious.

Berean Standard Bible

On that day the Root of Jesse will stand as a banner for the peoples. The nations will seek Him, and His place of rest will be glorious.

American Standard Version

And it shall come to pass in that day, that the root of Jesse, that standeth for an ensign of the peoples, unto him shall the nations seek; and his resting-place shall be glorious.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 11:10 is a profound messianic prophecy foretelling a future era when the "Root of Jesse" will stand as a universal standard, drawing all nations, particularly the Gentiles, to seek Him. This verse culminates a vision of the Messiah's righteous reign, promising a glorious and enduring rest for all who come under His benevolent authority, signifying a worldwide spiritual ingathering and the establishment of God's peaceable kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 11:10 concludes a profound prophetic oracle that begins in [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Shoot from Jesse's Stump"). The preceding verses describe the coming Messiah as a "shoot from the stump of Jesse" and a "branch from his roots," endowed with the Spirit of the Lord, wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and the fear of the Lord. His reign is characterized by perfect righteousness, justice, and peace, even transforming the natural world into a harmonious paradise where predators and prey coexist peacefully ([Isaiah 11:6-9](/isaiah/11-6 "Isaiah 11:6-9 - The Peaceable Kingdom")). Verse 10 acts as a climactic summary, shifting focus from the Messiah's attributes and the internal tranquility of His kingdom to its universal appeal and global impact, specifically highlighting the inclusion of the Gentiles. It sets the stage for the subsequent verses that speak of God's second return of His people and the end of rivalry between Judah and Ephraim ([Isaiah 11:11-16](/isaiah/11-11 "Isaiah 11:11-16 - The Second Exodus")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophet Isaiah ministered during a tumultuous period in Judah's history, spanning the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah (c. 740-680 BC). This era was marked by the rising Assyrian empire, which threatened and eventually conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel and besieged Judah. Against this backdrop of political instability, idolatry, and social injustice, Isaiah delivered messages of impending judgment and exile, but consistently interwove them with promises of future hope, restoration, and the coming of a righteous King. The lineage of Jesse, King David's father, was paramount for Jewish Messianic expectations, as it affirmed the Messiah would come from David's royal line, fulfilling the [Davidic Covenant](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12 - God's Covenant with David"). The concept of an "ensign" (or banner/standard) was culturally significant, serving as a rallying point for armies or tribes, visible from afar, symbolizing leadership and direction.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several key themes prevalent throughout the book of Isaiah and broader biblical prophecy. Firstly, it underscores the **Messianic Identity** of the coming deliverer as the "Root of Jesse," emphasizing His humble yet divinely appointed Davidic lineage, a theme introduced in [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Shoot from Jesse's Stump"). Secondly, it highlights the **Universal Scope of Salvation**, a recurring motif in Isaiah, particularly in chapters like [Isaiah 49](/isaiah/49 "Isaiah 49 - Israel and the Servant of the Lord") and [Isaiah 60](/isaiah/60 "Isaiah 60 - The Glory of Zion"), where the Lord's light and salvation extend beyond Israel to all nations. The "ensign" imagery vividly portrays the Messiah's authority and visibility, drawing people from all backgrounds. Thirdly, the promise of "glorious rest" speaks to the ultimate **Peace and Security** that will characterize the Messiah's reign, a concept deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of shalom, which encompasses wholeness, prosperity, and divine tranquility. This rest is not merely a cessation of conflict but a state of profound blessedness and divine presence, reflecting the very glory of God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Root (Hebrew, _sheresh'_):** (H8328) This term, literally referring to the underground part of a plant, is used here figuratively to denote origin, source, or foundation. In the context of "a root of Jesse," it signifies the Davidic lineage, specifically the humble, perhaps seemingly insignificant, origin from which the Messiah would spring, even after the Davidic dynasty appeared to be cut down like a tree stump ([Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Shoot from Jesse's Stump")). It emphasizes continuity and the promise of new life emerging from a seemingly dead past.
* **Ensign (Hebrew, _nêç'_):** (H5251) This word translates to a flag, banner, standard, or signal, often set on a high place to be seen from afar. It functions as a rallying point, a beacon, or a sign of authority. When the "Root of Jesse" stands as an ensign, it implies that the Messiah will be a visible, undeniable, and universally recognized figure around whom people will gather. He is the standard-bearer for God's kingdom, drawing allegiance and attention from all corners of the earth.
* **Gentiles (Hebrew, _gôwy'_):** (H1471) This term refers to foreign nations or non-Israelite peoples. Its inclusion here is profoundly significant, breaking from the often Israel-centric focus of Old Testament prophecy to explicitly state that the Messiah's appeal and saving work will extend beyond the chosen people to all humanity. This foreshadows the New Testament's emphasis on the inclusion of all peoples into God's family through Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse":** This opening clause anchors the prophecy in a specific, future eschatological time ("in that day"), pointing to a decisive moment in God's redemptive plan. The "root of Jesse" unequivocally identifies the Messiah as a descendant of Jesse, King David's father, thereby affirming His royal lineage and fulfilling the promises made to David. This imagery suggests new life emerging from a seemingly dormant or cut-down lineage, emphasizing divine faithfulness.
* **"which shall stand for an ensign of the people":** The Messiah, the "Root of Jesse," will "stand" (implying permanence, authority, and visibility) as an "ensign" or banner. This powerful metaphor indicates that He will be a highly visible, universally recognized rallying point, a standard around whom people will gather. He is the beacon of hope and direction for humanity, demonstrating His supreme authority and drawing allegiance. The phrase "of the people" can refer to Israel or, more broadly, to humanity, setting the stage for the subsequent clause.
* **"to it shall the Gentiles seek":** This is a pivotal declaration of universal salvation. The non-Jewish nations, the "Gentiles," will actively "seek" this ensign—the Messiah. This signifies a movement away from their former idolatry and ignorance towards the true God, finding Him through the person and work of the "Root of Jesse." It is a prophecy of the global expansion of God's kingdom and the inclusion of all peoples into His saving plan.
* **"and his rest shall be glorious":** The verse culminates with a promise concerning the nature of the Messiah's reign. The "rest" He provides is not merely an absence of conflict but a profound state of peace, security, and spiritual fulfillment. This rest is "glorious," meaning it is characterized by divine splendor, majesty, and honor. It speaks to the ultimate blessedness, tranquility, and dignity that will be experienced by those who find refuge and belonging in His kingdom.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 11:10 is rich with **Symbolism** and **Metaphor**. The central image of the "root of Jesse" is a powerful **metaphor** for the Messiah, drawing on the idea of a new shoot or sprout emerging from a seemingly dead stump, symbolizing renewal and the unexpected continuation of the Davidic line. This connects directly to the earlier imagery in [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Shoot from Jesse's Stump"). The Messiah is also depicted as an "ensign," a **symbol** of a rallying standard or banner, which is a vivid **metaphor** for His role as a visible, authoritative figure who draws people to Himself. This implies a magnetic quality and universal appeal. The concept of "rest" is also highly **symbolic**, representing not just physical repose but a state of spiritual peace, security, and fulfillment found in God's presence. The term "glorious" amplifies this, imbuing the rest with divine majesty and splendor, using **hyperbole** to emphasize its ultimate perfection. The contrast between the humble "root" and the universal "ensign" drawing "Gentiles" highlights the expansive and inclusive nature of God's redemptive plan, employing **juxtaposition** to underscore the Messiah's far-reaching impact.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 11:10 stands as a cornerstone of Old Testament Messianic prophecy, articulating God's universal redemptive plan that extends beyond the confines of Israel. The "Root of Jesse" embodies the continuity of God's covenant faithfulness to David, while simultaneously revealing a broader vision of salvation for all humanity. This verse prefigures the New Testament revelation that Jesus Christ, the Son of David, is the fulfillment of this prophecy, the one to whom all nations would ultimately turn for salvation and true spiritual rest. It underscores the theme of divine sovereignty in electing a people (Israel) through whom He would ultimately bless all peoples, demonstrating His impartial love and desire for all to come to a saving knowledge of Him. The glorious rest speaks to the ultimate *shalom* of God's kingdom, a peace that transcends earthly understanding and is rooted in His divine presence.

* [Romans 15:12](/romans/15-12 "Paul quotes Isaiah 11:10 regarding Gentile hope in Christ")
* [Isaiah 2:4](/isaiah/2-4 "Prophecy of universal peace and disarmament")
* [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "The Servant as a light to the Gentiles")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 11:10 offers profound hope and a clear call to action for believers today. It reminds us that Jesus Christ, the "Root of Jesse," is indeed the central figure of God's redemptive plan, accessible to all people, regardless of their background, ethnicity, or past. This truth should ignite within us a passion for global missions, recognizing that God's heart beats for every nation, tribe, and tongue to seek and find Him. We are called to be instruments in making this "ensign" known to the world, proclaiming the good news that true peace and glorious rest are found only in Him. Furthermore, this verse encourages us to live in anticipation of the future reality of His glorious reign, allowing the promise of His ultimate *shalom* to shape our present lives, fostering a deeper trust in His sovereignty and a commitment to living out His kingdom values in a broken world. It invites us to personally seek His rest daily, finding solace and peace in His presence amidst life's turmoil.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the imagery of the "Root of Jesse" and the "ensign" deepen your understanding of Jesus Christ's identity and mission?**
* **In what ways does the prophecy of Gentiles seeking the Messiah challenge or expand your perspective on God's universal love and redemptive plan?**
* **What does "glorious rest" mean to you personally, and how can you more fully experience this rest in your daily life?**
* **How can you participate more actively in making the "Root of Jesse" known as an "ensign" to those around you and to the nations?**

### FAQ
**What does "the Root of Jesse" refer to in Isaiah 11:10?**

Answer: "The Root of Jesse" refers to the Messiah, the promised deliverer and king. Jesse was the father of King David, and this phrase signifies that the Messiah would come from David's royal lineage, fulfilling the ancient promises made to David that his throne would be established forever ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - God's Covenant with David")). The imagery of a "root" suggests new life emerging from a seemingly cut-down or dormant family line, emphasizing the humble origins from which this great king would arise, as further elaborated in [Isaiah 11:1](/isaiah/11-1 "Isaiah 11:1 - The Shoot from Jesse's Stump").

**How does Isaiah 11:10 relate to the inclusion of Gentiles in God's plan?**

Answer: Isaiah 11:10 explicitly states, "to it shall the Gentiles seek." This is a profound prophetic declaration that God's redemptive plan is not exclusively for Israel but extends to all nations, the non-Jewish peoples. The "Root of Jesse" (the Messiah) will be a universal "ensign" or rallying point, drawing people from every background to Himself. This prophecy is foundational to understanding the New Testament's emphasis on the global reach of the Gospel and the formation of a multi-ethnic church, where both Jews and Gentiles are united in Christ ([Ephesians 2:11-22](/ephesians/2-11 "Ephesians 2:11-22 - Gentiles and Jews united in Christ")).

**What is the "glorious rest" mentioned in this verse?**

Answer: The "glorious rest" refers to the profound peace, security, and spiritual fulfillment that will characterize the reign of the Messiah. It is not merely a cessation of conflict but a state of divine tranquility, wholeness (*shalom*), and blessedness that reflects the very glory and presence of God. This rest implies a permanent, secure, and prosperous kingdom where true peace resides, a spiritual rest for the soul that is found in relationship with the Messiah, as Jesus Himself invited, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" ([Matthew 11:28](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28 - Jesus' invitation to rest")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 11:10 finds its ultimate and glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is unequivocally the "Root of Jesse," tracing His lineage directly back to David through Jesse, as affirmed in the genealogies of [Matthew 1:1-17](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1-17 - The Genealogy of Jesus") and [Luke 3:23-38](/luke/3-23 "Luke 3:23-38 - The Genealogy of Jesus"). Though born in humble circumstances, Jesus stood as the divine "ensign of the people," a visible standard for all humanity. His life, death, and resurrection became the ultimate rallying point, drawing people from every nation, tribe, and tongue to Himself. The Apostle Paul directly quotes this verse in [Romans 15:12](/romans/15-12 "Romans 15:12 - Paul quotes Isaiah 11:10 regarding Gentile hope in Christ") to demonstrate that Christ came specifically to offer hope to the Gentiles, confirming Isaiah's prophecy of universal inclusion. Furthermore, the "glorious rest" promised in Isaiah 11:10 is realized in Christ. He offers true spiritual rest to all who are weary and burdened ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Jesus' invitation to rest")), a peace that surpasses all understanding ([Philippians 4:7](/philippians/4-7 "Philippians 4:7 - The peace of God")). This rest is glorious because it is infused with the very glory of God, a foretaste of the eternal peace and blessedness that awaits believers in His everlasting kingdom ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No more sorrow in the new heaven and new earth")). Thus, Jesus is not merely a historical figure but the living embodiment of Isaiah's prophetic vision, the one to whom all peoples are called to seek and find glorious rest.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 15:9

And that the Gentiles might glorify God for [his] mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name.

Romans 15:12

And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust.

Luke 2:32

A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

Isaiah 11:1

¶ And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:

Matthew 2:1

¶ Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

Matthew 2:2

Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

Matthew 12:21

And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.