Isaiah 53:2

KJV

For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, [there is] no beauty that we should desire him.

KJV (with Strong's)

For he shall grow up {H5927} before {H6440} him as a tender plant {H3126}, and as a root {H8328} out of a dry {H6723} ground {H776}: he hath no form {H8389} nor comeliness {H1926}; and when we shall see {H7200} him, there is no beauty {H4758} that we should desire {H2530} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

For before him he grew up like a young plant, like a root out of dry ground. He was not well-formed or especially handsome; we saw him, but his appearance did not attract us.

Berean Standard Bible

He grew up before Him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no stately form or majesty to attract us, no beauty that we should desire Him.

American Standard Version

For he grew up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 53:2, a pivotal verse within the Suffering Servant passage (Isaiah 52:13-53:12), profoundly describes the Messiah's humble and unassuming origins and appearance. It presents a stark contrast to conventional expectations of a glorious, conquering king, preparing the reader for a deliverer whose greatness is found not in outward splendor but in self-sacrificial service and spiritual mission. This verse emphasizes the unexpected nature of God's chosen one, who would emerge from obscurity and possess no external qualities that would naturally elicit human admiration or desire.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 53:2 immediately follows the introduction of the Lord's Servant in Isaiah 52:13-15, where he is paradoxically described as both "exalted and lifted up" and "marred more than any man." This verse then elaborates on the *reason* for his marred appearance and lack of human appeal, setting the stage for the profound suffering, rejection, and atoning sacrifice detailed in the subsequent verses of Isaiah 53. It functions as a foundational description of the Servant's earthly manifestation, preparing the reader for the radical departure from traditional messianic expectations that the rest of the chapter will unveil. The imagery of growth from barren ground directly contrasts with the flourishing, majestic imagery often associated with kingship in the ancient Near East.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the expectation for the Messiah was largely shaped by prophecies of a Davidic king who would restore Israel's glory, defeat its enemies, and reign with power and splendor (e.g., [Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - Prophecy of the Messiah's Reign") or [Psalm 2](/psalm/2 "Psalm 2 - The Reign of the Lord's Anointed")). Kings and leaders were often chosen for their impressive stature and appearance, as seen with Saul in [1 Samuel 9:2](/1_samuel/9-2 "1 Samuel 9:2 - Saul's Stature"). The imagery of a "tender plant" and "root out of a dry ground" would have evoked a sense of weakness, vulnerability, and humble origins, directly challenging these deeply ingrained cultural and theological expectations. The "dry ground" could metaphorically refer to the spiritual barrenness or political subjugation of Israel at the time of the Messiah's coming, or even to his humble Galilean origins, far from the centers of power.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Isaiah and the broader prophetic literature. It underscores the theme of **Divine Paradox**, where God's chosen one does not conform to human ideals of greatness, power, or beauty, but rather embodies humility and suffering. It highlights the **Suffering Servant** motif, introducing the Servant's unassuming nature as a prelude to his profound humiliation and atoning work. Furthermore, it touches upon the theme of **Rejection and Misunderstanding**, foreshadowing that the Messiah's lack of outward appeal would lead many to overlook or dismiss him, as later described in [John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - Jesus Came to His Own"). The imagery of growth from "dry ground" also subtly introduces the theme of **Life from Desolation**, hinting at the miraculous and unexpected nature of the Servant's emergence and ultimate triumph.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **tender plant (Hebrew, _yôwnêq'_):** From H3126, meaning "a sucker; hence, a twig (of a tree felled and sprouting)." This word emphasizes the Servant's fragility, vulnerability, and humble beginnings, akin to a small, new shoot struggling to grow. It suggests a lack of established strength or imposing presence, highlighting his unassuming emergence.
* **form (Hebrew, _tôʼar'_):** From H8389, meaning "outline, i.e. figure or appearance." This refers to the physical shape, contour, or general outward presentation. The declaration that "he hath no form" implies a lack of distinguished or striking physical appearance that would command attention or admiration. It's not necessarily about being ugly, but about being unremarkable or average in a way that doesn't draw the eye.
* **comeliness (Hebrew, _hâdâr'_):** From H1926, meaning "magnificence, i.e. ornament or splendor; beauty, excellency, glory, honour, majesty." This word denotes a majestic or attractive quality, often associated with royalty, dignity, or physical attractiveness that inspires awe or desire. The absence of "comeliness" means the Servant would lack the regal bearing, charismatic presence, or inherent splendor that people typically seek or admire in a leader or hero.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant":** This clause introduces the Servant's humble and vulnerable origins. The "him" likely refers to God, indicating that the Servant's development is under divine observation and guidance, even in his unassuming state. The simile of a "tender plant" (yôwnêq) emphasizes his smallness, newness, and perhaps fragility, suggesting an unexpected and unheralded emergence rather than a grand, powerful arrival.
* **"and as a root out of a dry ground":** This further elaborates on the Servant's obscure and difficult beginnings. A "root" (sheresh) implies deep, hidden origins, while "dry ground" (tsîyâh ʼerets) signifies a barren, infertile, or desolate environment. This imagery powerfully conveys that the Servant would not arise from a place of prominence, wealth, or power, but from an unlikely and unpromising background, making his existence and growth seem miraculous yet unadorned.
* **"he hath no form nor comeliness":** This is a direct statement about the Servant's outward appearance. "Form" (tôʼar) refers to his physical figure, and "comeliness" (hâdâr) denotes splendor, majesty, or inherent attractiveness. The negation of both indicates that he would possess no striking physical features, no regal bearing, and no charismatic presence that would naturally draw human admiration or respect based on outward appearance.
* **"and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.":** This final clause explains the consequence of his unassuming appearance: he would not be desired or sought after by human standards. The word "beauty" here (marʼeh) refers to visual appeal or sight, and "desire" (châmad) implies a strong longing or coveting. The lack of such beauty means that those who saw him would find nothing outwardly appealing or impressive enough to make them want to follow, honor, or even acknowledge him as a significant figure, let alone the Messiah.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 53:2 is rich with **Simile** and **Metaphor**, primarily through the vivid imagery of the "tender plant" and "root out of a dry ground." These comparisons effectively convey the Servant's humble, vulnerable, and unexpected origins, contrasting sharply with the expected grandeur of a king. The verse also employs **Negation** ("no form nor comeliness," "no beauty") to underscore the absence of qualities typically admired by humanity, thereby creating a powerful **Paradox**: God's chosen deliverer would be utterly unimpressive by worldly standards. This deliberate portrayal also functions as **Foreshadowing**, preparing the reader for the Servant's rejection and suffering, which are detailed in subsequent verses, as his lack of outward appeal directly contributes to his being "despised and rejected of men."

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 53:2 lays the theological groundwork for understanding the nature of God's redemptive plan, which often operates contrary to human wisdom and expectations. It challenges the common human tendency to value outward appearance, power, and prestige, redirecting focus to the profound spiritual reality of humility and sacrifice. The verse teaches that true divine authority and saving power do not reside in worldly splendor but in a profound identification with human weakness and suffering. This humility is not a weakness but a necessary condition for the Servant's atoning work, enabling him to fully bear the sins and sorrows of humanity without the barrier of human pride or self-exaltation. It underscores that God's chosen instruments are often those overlooked or despised by the world, demonstrating His power perfected in weakness.

* [Psalm 22:6](/psalm/22-6 "Psalm 22:6 - Despised and Rejected")
* [Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6 "Philippians 2:6-8 - Christ's Humiliation")
* [1 Corinthians 1:27-29](/1_corinthians/1-27 "1 Corinthians 1:27-29 - God Chooses the Weak")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 53:2 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers, challenging our innate human tendencies to judge by outward appearances and worldly success. In a culture that often idolizes beauty, charisma, and power, this verse calls us to re-evaluate our criteria for value and leadership, both in the church and in our personal lives. It encourages us to look beyond the superficial and to appreciate the quiet strength, humble service, and inner character that often go unnoticed but are deeply valued by God. We are reminded that God's greatest works are frequently accomplished through seemingly insignificant means and individuals, teaching us patience, discernment, and a willingness to embrace God's unconventional methods. Ultimately, it invites us to cultivate a heart that desires spiritual beauty and truth over fleeting worldly allure, fostering a deeper appreciation for the profound humility of Christ.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does our modern culture's emphasis on appearance and success challenge or align with the message of Isaiah 53:2?**
* **In what ways might we, like those who saw the Suffering Servant, be prone to overlook or reject what God values because it lacks outward appeal?**
* **How can understanding the Messiah's humble appearance deepen our appreciation for His sacrifice and His identification with humanity?**
* **What practical steps can we take to cultivate a heart that values inner character and spiritual truth over external attractiveness or worldly status?**

### FAQ
**Was Jesus physically unattractive, according to this verse?**

Answer: Isaiah 53:2 does not necessarily mean Jesus was physically ugly in the sense of being deformed or repulsive. Rather, the Hebrew words "no form nor comeliness" (tôʼar wĕlō'-hādār) suggest a lack of striking or majestic physical appearance, no regal bearing, and no charismatic presence that would naturally draw human admiration or desire. He was unremarkable, ordinary in appearance, lacking the outward grandeur or imposing stature that people typically associated with a king or a great leader. His appeal was not to be based on physical attractiveness or worldly splendor, but on his divine character and redemptive mission. This ordinariness allowed him to truly identify with humanity in its humble state.

**Why would God choose a Messiah who was not outwardly impressive?**

Answer: God's choice of an outwardly unimpressive Messiah, as prophesied in [Isaiah 53:2](/isaiah/53-2 "Isaiah 53:2 - The Suffering Servant's Appearance"), serves several profound theological purposes. Firstly, it ensures that faith is placed in God's power and not in human strength or charisma. As [1 Corinthians 1:27-29](/1_corinthians/1-27 "1 Corinthians 1:27-29 - God Chooses the Foolish and Weak") explains, God often chooses "the foolish things of the world to shame the wise" and "the weak things of the world to shame the strong." Secondly, it underscores the spiritual nature of the Messiah's kingdom, which is "not of this world" ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom Not of This World")). His lack of worldly appeal prevented people from following him for superficial reasons, such as political ambition or desire for earthly glory. Finally, it highlights the depth of his humility and self-sacrifice, which were essential for his atoning work, allowing him to fully identify with suffering humanity.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 53:2 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in the person and life of Jesus Christ. He truly "grew up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground," emerging from the obscure town of Nazareth, a place from which Nathaniel famously questioned, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" ([John 1:46](/john/1-46 "John 1:46 - Can Anything Good Come From Nazareth?")). His birth in a humble stable in Bethlehem ([Luke 2:7](/luke/2-7 "Luke 2:7 - Jesus' Humble Birth")) and his upbringing as a carpenter's son ([Matthew 13:55](/matthew/13-55 "Matthew 13:55 - Jesus, the Carpenter's Son")) perfectly align with the prophecy of a root from dry ground, signifying humble and unpromising origins. Throughout his earthly ministry, Jesus possessed "no form nor comeliness" in the eyes of the world; he was not a king adorned in splendor, but a servant who washed feet ([John 13:1-17](/john/13-1 "John 13:1-17 - Jesus Washes Disciples' Feet")) and had "nowhere to lay his head" ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - The Son of Man Has Nowhere to Lay His Head")). His lack of outward beauty or charisma led to his widespread rejection by those who sought a conquering king rather than a suffering servant ([John 1:11](/john/1-11 "John 1:11 - Jesus Came to His Own")). Yet, it was precisely this profound humility and unassuming nature that enabled him to perfectly fulfill his mission as the atoning Lamb of God, demonstrating that God's power is perfected in weakness and His glory revealed through self-sacrificial love, not worldly pomp.

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

Philippians 2:6

Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

Philippians 2:7

But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

Isaiah 52:14

As many were astonied at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men:

John 1:10

He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.

John 1:14

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

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:

Jeremiah 23:5

Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.