Isaiah 53:5 (KJV) is one of the most prominent verses in the Old Testament, especially for those who believe in Jesus in the New Testament, as it is considered a clear prophecy about the suffering and sacrifice of the Messiah:
> "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."
Explanation of each part:
1. "He was wounded for our transgressions"
– “He was pierced because of our sins”
→ This is a picture of substitutionary sacrifice — the one who suffered did so not for his own sins, but for the sins of others.
2. "He was bruised for our iniquities"
– “He was crushed for our wickedness”
→ Sin is not merely wrongful actions, but a corrupt nature, and the Servant bore the consequences on our behalf.
3. "The chastisement of our peace was upon him"
– “The punishment that brought us peace was upon him”
→ This speaks of atonement. We have peace with God because He took the punishment in our place.
4. "With his stripes we are healed"
– “By the lashes he received, we are healed”
→ “Stripes” refers to the wounds from scourging. “Healed” goes beyond physical recovery to spiritual restoration — rescue from sin and death.
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In the context of the entire chapter of Isaiah 53:
Chapter 53 portrays the “Suffering Servant” — a figure strikingly similar to Jesus: having no outward beauty, despised and rejected, suffering greatly, led like a lamb to the slaughter, and ultimately bearing the sins of others.
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According to Christian belief:
Isaiah 53:5 is one of the clearest prophecies about the death of Jesus Christ on the cross. Christians believe this verse was fulfilled when Jesus was crucified — He died in place of sinners to bring salvation.
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Conclusion:
Isaiah 53:5 is a powerful declaration of sacrifice, love, and grace. It reveals an innocent one who suffers in place of the guilty, so that through His suffering, people can receive peace, healing, and reconciliation with God.
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