Isaiah 61:3

KJV

To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

KJV (with Strong's)

To appoint {H7760} unto them that mourn {H57} in Zion {H6726}, to give {H5414} unto them beauty {H6287} for ashes {H665}, the oil {H8081} of joy {H8342} for mourning {H60}, the garment {H4594} of praise {H8416} for the spirit {H7307} of heaviness {H3544}; that they might be called {H7121} trees {H352} of righteousness {H6664}, the planting {H4302} of the LORD {H3068}, that he might be glorified {H6286}.

Complete Jewish Bible

yes, provide for those in Tziyon who mourn, giving them garlands instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, a cloak of praise instead of a heavy spirit, so that they will be called oaks of righteousness planted by ADONAI, in which he takes pride.

Berean Standard Bible

to console the mourners in Zion— to give them a crown of beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and a garment of praise for a spirit of despair. So they will be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.

American Standard Version

to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them a garland for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of Jehovah, that he may be glorified.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 61:3 stands as a powerful declaration of divine transformation, promising a radical reversal for those who experience deep sorrow and spiritual oppression. It speaks of God's active intervention to replace mourning with joy, desolation with beauty, and despair with praise, ultimately establishing His people as flourishing "trees of righteousness" whose transformed lives bring glory to the Lord. This verse encapsulates God's compassionate heart and His redemptive purpose to restore and honor the afflicted.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 61:3 is an integral part of a profound Messianic prophecy that begins in [Isaiah 61:1](/isaiah/61-1 "Isaiah 61:1 - The Anointed One's Mission"). The preceding verses introduce the "Spirit of the Lord GOD" upon the Anointed One, whose mission is to "preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn" ([Isaiah 61:1-2](/isaiah/61-1 "Isaiah 61:1-2 - The Messiah's Mission and Purpose")). Verse 3 elaborates on *how* this comfort and restoration will manifest, detailing the specific exchanges God will make. This passage is part of the "Book of Consolation" (chapters [Isaiah 40-66](/isaiah/40 "Isaiah 40-66 - The Book of Consolation")), which shifts from themes of judgment to messages of hope, restoration, and the future glory of Israel and the nations.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The original audience for this prophecy was likely the Jewish exiles in Babylon, who were mourning the destruction of Jerusalem, the temple, and their national identity. Their land lay desolate, and their spiritual condition was one of deep grief and despair, symbolized by "ashes" and "heaviness." Culturally, mourning rituals often involved sitting in ashes, tearing clothes, and refraining from anointing with oil, all signs of deep sorrow and humility before God. The promise of "beauty for ashes," "oil of joy for mourning," and a "garment of praise" directly counters these cultural expressions of grief, promising a complete reversal of their fortunes and a restoration of honor and celebration. "Zion" ([Isaiah 6726](/isaiah/67-26 "Isaiah 6726 - Zion")) here represents not only the physical city of Jerusalem but also the spiritual heart of God's people, the community of faith that was suffering.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully articulates several core themes central to the book of Isaiah and biblical theology. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Exchange and Transformation**, where God actively intervenes to replace human suffering and despair with His divine gifts of beauty, joy, and praise. This is not merely a superficial change but a profound spiritual and emotional renewal. Secondly, the theme of **Comfort and Restoration** is prominent, emphasizing God's compassionate nature to heal the brokenhearted and lift the oppressed. The promise to "comfort all that mourn" ([Isaiah 61:2](/isaiah/61-2 "Isaiah 61:2 - God Comforts All Who Mourn")) finds its specific fulfillment in the provisions of verse 3. Thirdly, the verse underscores **Purposeful Redemption**, as the transformed individuals are not just comforted for their own sake but are called "trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD." This imagery, reminiscent of the righteous person flourishing like a tree by streams of water in [Psalm 1:3](/psalm/1-3 "Psalm 1:3 - The Righteous Flourish"), signifies stability, fruitfulness, and a divinely ordained identity. Finally, the ultimate theme is **God's Glory**, as the entire process of transformation is orchestrated "that he might be glorified." The restored lives of God's people serve as a living testament to His power, faithfulness, and redemptive love, bringing honor and praise to His name, much like the call to bear much fruit for God's glory in [John 15:8](/john/15-8 "John 15:8 - Bearing Fruit for God's Glory").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **mourn (Hebrew, _ʼâbêl'_):** (H57) Derived from a root meaning "to lament," this word describes a state of deep sorrow, grief, and mourning. It refers to those who are experiencing profound emotional distress, often associated with loss, desolation, or spiritual brokenness. In this context, it speaks to the raw, visceral pain of the exiles and all who suffer under oppression or spiritual heaviness.
* **beauty (Hebrew, _pᵉʼêr'_):** (H6287) This term signifies an embellishment, specifically referring to a fancy head-dress or turban. It denotes honor, celebration, and adornment, standing in stark contrast to the ashes of mourning. The exchange of `pe'er` for `ashes` (H665, `ʼêpher`) indicates a complete reversal from humiliation and grief to dignity, festivity, and renewed status.
* **heaviness (Hebrew, _kêheh'_):** (H3544) This word describes something "feeble, obscure," or "dim." When applied to the spirit (`rûwach`, H7307), it refers to a faint, oppressed, or despondent spirit—a deep spiritual weariness or depression. The promise of a "garment of praise" for this "spirit of heaviness" highlights God's power to lift the deepest forms of spiritual despondency and replace them with vibrant adoration.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion,"** This opening phrase establishes the specific recipients of God's grace: those who are grieving and sorrowful, particularly within the community of faith ("in Zion"). The verb "to appoint" (H7760, `sûwm`) implies a deliberate, sovereign act of God, a divine decree to bestow something upon these afflicted ones.
* **"to give unto them beauty for ashes,"** This is the first of three powerful exchanges. "Ashes" (H665, `ʼêpher`) symbolize deep mourning, repentance, and desolation, often sprinkled on the head as a sign of grief. "Beauty" (H6287, `pᵉʼêr`) refers to a ceremonial head-dress or turban, worn for celebration and honor. This exchange signifies a complete reversal from humiliation and sorrow to honor, dignity, and renewed life.
* **"the oil of joy for mourning,"** The second exchange. Mourners typically refrained from anointing themselves with oil, a sign of festivity and well-being. The "oil of joy" (H8081, `shemen` of H8342, `sâsôwn`) symbolizes gladness, prosperity, and the anointing of God's presence, replacing the outward signs of sorrow (H60, `ʼêbel`). It speaks to an inner spiritual delight that displaces grief.
* **"the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;"** The third exchange. "Spirit of heaviness" (H7307, `rûwach` of H3544, `kêheh`) describes a dim, faint, or oppressed spirit, a state of deep despondency or depression. The "garment of praise" (H4594, `maʻăṭeh` of H8416, `tᵉhillâh`) refers to a festive robe, replacing the sackcloth worn during mourning. This signifies a fundamental shift in attitude and disposition, from despair to heartfelt adoration and gratitude towards God.
* **"that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD,"** This clause reveals the transformed identity and purpose of those who receive God's restorative work. "Trees of righteousness" (H352, `ʼayil` of H6664, `tsedeq`) is a powerful **metaphor** for stability, strength, and fruitfulness, rooted in God's character. Being "the planting" (H4302, `maṭṭâʻ`) "of the LORD" (H3068, `Yᵉhôvâh`) emphasizes their divine origin and establishment, indicating that their flourishing is entirely God's work and for His purposes.
* **"that he might be glorified."** This final clause states the ultimate purpose of this divine transformation. The restored lives of God's people, flourishing in righteousness, become living testimonies to His power, goodness, and faithfulness. Their transformation brings honor, renown, and worship to God's name, fulfilling His overarching plan to reveal His glory through His people.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 61:3 is rich with **Symbolism** and **Metaphor**, particularly in its use of contrasting imagery. "Ashes," "mourning," and "spirit of heaviness" are powerful symbols of desolation, grief, and spiritual oppression. These are juxtaposed with "beauty," "oil of joy," and "garment of praise," which symbolize honor, celebration, and spiritual vitality. This creates a strong **Antithesis** or **Contrast**, highlighting the radical nature of God's transformative work. The phrase "trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD" is a profound **Metaphor** that conveys stability, growth, fruitfulness, and divine ownership. It also employs **Parallelism** in the repeated structure of "X for Y," emphasizing the divine exchange and the comprehensive nature of God's restoration. The entire verse uses vivid, sensory language to paint a picture of profound spiritual and emotional renewal.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 61:3 profoundly illustrates God's character as the ultimate Comforter and Restorer. It reveals His deep compassion for the brokenhearted and His sovereign power to reverse conditions of despair. The divine exchange described—beauty for ashes, joy for mourning, praise for heaviness—is not merely a superficial change but a deep, spiritual transformation that redefines identity and purpose. This verse speaks to the eschatological hope of a new heaven and new earth where sorrow will be no more, but it also provides a present reality for believers who experience the Holy Spirit's work of comfort and renewal. It emphasizes that God's redemptive work always has a purpose: to produce righteousness in His people and to bring glory to His name, demonstrating His faithfulness and power to a watching world.

* [Psalm 30:11](/psalm/30-11 "Psalm 30:11 - God Turns Mourning into Dancing"): "Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness;"
* [Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "Revelation 21:4 - No More Tears or Pain"): "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away."
* [2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ"): "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 61:3 offers profound hope and practical encouragement for every individual facing grief, depression, spiritual weariness, or any form of deep sorrow. It assures us that God is not distant from our suffering but actively seeks to intervene and transform our deepest pains. We are invited to bring our "ashes," our "mourning," and our "spirit of heaviness" to Him, trusting that He desires to exchange them for His "beauty," "oil of joy," and "garment of praise." This transformation is a testament to His restorative power and a call for us to embrace a new identity as "trees of righteousness," rooted in Him and bearing fruit that brings Him glory. Our transformed lives, marked by joy and praise despite past or present struggles, become powerful witnesses to God's unfailing love and redemptive work in the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "ashes" or "spirit of heaviness" in your life do you need to surrender to God for His transforming touch?**
* **How can embracing a "garment of praise" actively shift your perspective and spiritual state, even in difficult circumstances?**
* **In what ways can your life, as a "tree of righteousness," bring glory to the Lord in your daily interactions and choices?**
* **How does the promise of God's active intervention in your mourning encourage you to trust Him more deeply with your pain?**

### FAQ
**Who are "them that mourn in Zion" in this verse?**

Answer: "Them that mourn in Zion" primarily refers to the Jewish people who were grieving the destruction of Jerusalem and their exile in Babylon, experiencing profound national and spiritual distress. However, in a broader sense, it encompasses all who are brokenhearted, oppressed, and spiritually heavy, whether due to personal suffering, societal injustice, or the weight of sin. The prophecy extends beyond its immediate historical context to include all who genuinely mourn and seek God's comfort, particularly those within the community of faith, the spiritual "Zion."

**What is the significance of the "exchanges" (beauty for ashes, oil of joy for mourning, garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness)?**

Answer: These exchanges are highly symbolic and signify a complete and radical reversal of fortunes, from deep sorrow and humiliation to honor, joy, and celebration. "Ashes" (H665, `ʼêpher`) were a sign of mourning and repentance, while "beauty" (H6287, `pᵉʼêr`) refers to a festive turban or head-dress. The absence of oil (H8081, `shemen`) was a sign of mourning, whereas "oil of joy" (H8342, `sâsôwn`) signifies gladness and festivity. "Sackcloth" was worn for a "spirit of heaviness" (H3544, `kêheh`), while a "garment of praise" (H8416, `tᵉhillâh`) represents festive attire and a transformed heart of worship. Together, they illustrate God's comprehensive power to transform outward signs of grief and inner spiritual despondency into expressions of divine favor, inner delight, and active worship. This divine exchange is a hallmark of God's redemptive work, turning sorrow into profound spiritual blessing.

**How does this verse apply to believers today?**

Answer: For believers today, Isaiah 61:3 is a powerful promise of spiritual restoration and emotional healing through Christ. It assures us that God is actively involved in our suffering and desires to bring profound transformation to our lives. When we experience grief, depression, anxiety, or spiritual brokenness, we can look to this verse as a divine promise that God offers to exchange our pain for His peace, our sorrow for His joy, and our despair for His praise. It calls us to trust in His restorative power and to live out our transformed identity as "trees of righteousness," bearing fruit that glorifies Him. This verse reminds us that even in our darkest moments, God's ultimate purpose for us is one of flourishing and a life that reflects His glory, as promised in [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works for Good").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 61:3 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. When Jesus began His public ministry, He entered the synagogue in Nazareth and read directly from [Isaiah 61:1-2](/luke/4-18 "Luke 4:18-19 - Jesus Reads from Isaiah"), declaring, "This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears" ([Luke 4:21](/luke/4-21 "Luke 4:21 - Scripture Fulfilled")). Jesus is the Anointed One (the Messiah) upon whom the Spirit of the Lord rests, sent to bring good news to the poor, bind up the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to the captives, and comfort all who mourn. His ministry was characterized by precisely these exchanges: He brought healing to the sick, forgiveness to sinners, hope to the despairing, and life to the dead. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Jesus took upon Himself the "ashes" of humanity's sin and sorrow, offering in return the "beauty" of His righteousness and the "oil of joy" of the Holy Spirit. The "garment of praise" is given to those who, through faith in Him, are delivered from the "spirit of heaviness" of sin and condemnation, receiving instead the joy of salvation and the freedom to worship God. Believers, through union with Christ, become "trees of righteousness," not by their own efforts, but as "the planting of the LORD," rooted and established in Him ([Colossians 2:7](/colossians/2-7 "Colossians 2:7 - Rooted in Christ")). This transformation, wrought by Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit, ultimately serves "that he might be glorified," as our lives become living testimonies to the redemptive power of the Lamb of God ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")) who conquered death and sorrow.

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

Jeremiah 17:7

Blessed [is] the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is.

Jeremiah 17:8

For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and [that] spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.

Psalms 30:11

Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness;

John 16:20

Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.

Isaiah 61:10

¶ I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh [himself] with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth [herself] with her jewels.

Ecclesiastes 9:8

Let thy garments be always white; and let thy head lack no ointment.

Psalms 45:7

Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.