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:

As many {H7227} were astonied {H8074} at thee; his visage {H4758} was so marred {H4893} more than any man {H376}, and his form {H8389} more than the sons {H1121} of men {H120}:

Just as many were appalled at him, because he was so disfigured that he didn't even seem human and simply no longer looked like a man,

Just as many were appalled at Him— His appearance was disfigured beyond that of any man, and His form was marred beyond human likeness—

Like as many were astonished at thee (his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men),

Commentary

Isaiah 52:14 (KJV) describes the shocking and severely disfigured appearance of the Suffering Servant, a pivotal figure in prophetic literature. This verse serves as a stark prelude to the profound suffering detailed in the subsequent verses of Isaiah 53.

Context

This verse is part of the fourth "Servant Song" in Isaiah (52:13-53:12), which prophesies the work of a righteous servant who suffers on behalf of others. Immediately preceding this verse, Isaiah 52:13 speaks of the Servant's future exaltation and glorification, creating a powerful contrast with the humiliation described here. From a Christian perspective, this passage is widely understood as a detailed prophecy of Jesus Christ's suffering, crucifixion, and ultimate atoning work.

Key Themes

  • Profound Disfigurement and Suffering: The central message is the extreme physical and emotional suffering endured by the Servant. His appearance was so damaged, "marred more than any man," suggesting a level of disfigurement beyond normal human experience, perhaps from beatings, torture, and the cumulative effects of intense pain.
  • Astonishment and Shock: The phrase "As many were astonied at thee" highlights the overwhelming shock and horror of those who witnessed the Servant's condition. This astonishment underscores the unprecedented nature of his suffering and humiliation.
  • Contrast of Humiliation and Exaltation: This verse presents the depths of the Servant's humiliation, which is later contrasted with his ultimate exaltation and success (as mentioned in Isaiah 52:13 and Isaiah 53:10-12). This tension between suffering and glory is a significant biblical theme.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "astonied" comes from a root meaning to be stunned, amazed, or struck with terror. The Hebrew word for "marred" (mashchath - מַשְׁחַת) implies corruption, ruin, or destruction, indicating a complete defacement rather than just a minor injury. This emphasizes the severity of the Servant's physical state, making him almost unrecognizable as human.

Practical Application

For believers, Isaiah 52:14 offers a profound glimpse into the extent of the suffering endured by Jesus Christ. It reminds us of the immense cost of God's love and the substitutionary atonement that secures salvation. Understanding the depth of his physical and emotional anguish can deepen our appreciation for his sacrifice and inspire greater devotion. It also teaches us that true glory often follows a path of humility and suffering, mirroring the journey of Christ himself (Philippians 2:8-9).

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Isaiah 50:6 (12 votes)

    I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting.

  • Isaiah 53:2 (11 votes)

    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.

  • Isaiah 53:5 (11 votes)

    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.

  • Matthew 26:67 (9 votes)

    Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and others smote [him] with the palms of their hands,

  • Psalms 22:6 (7 votes)

    But I [am] a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people.

  • Psalms 22:7 (7 votes)

    All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, [saying],

  • Psalms 22:17 (7 votes)

    I may tell all my bones: they look [and] stare upon me.