Isaiah 50:6

I offered My back to those who struck Me, and My cheeks to those who tore out My beard. I did not hide My face from scorn and spittle.

Study Bible

I offered My back
The phrase "I offered My back" signifies a voluntary submission to suffering. In Hebrew, the word for "offered" implies a deliberate choice, reflecting the servant's willingness to endure pain for a greater purpose. This act of offering is prophetic of Christ's passion, where He willingly submitted to scourging. Historically, the back was often the target for punishment, symbolizing the acceptance of judgment on behalf of others.

to those who beat Me
The act of being beaten is a physical manifestation of suffering and humiliation. In the context of Isaiah, this reflects the servant's role as a suffering servant, a theme that resonates with the New Testament portrayal of Jesus. The Hebrew root for "beat" suggests a violent and repeated action, emphasizing the intensity of the suffering endured.

My cheeks to those who tore out My beard
In ancient Near Eastern culture, the beard was a symbol of dignity and respect. To have one's beard torn out was a profound act of humiliation and disgrace. The servant's willingness to endure such shame highlights the depth of His humility and submission. This phrase foreshadows the mockery and abuse Jesus faced, as recorded in the Gospels.

I did not hide My face
The decision not to hide one's face in the face of scorn and abuse indicates courage and resolve. In Hebrew, the concept of "hiding" often relates to shame or fear. By not hiding, the servant demonstrates a steadfast commitment to His mission, regardless of the personal cost. This reflects the unwavering determination of Christ to fulfill His redemptive work.

from scorn and spittle
Scorn and spittle represent the ultimate expressions of contempt and rejection. In biblical times, spitting on someone was a grave insult, signifying utter disdain. The servant's acceptance of such treatment underscores His role as the bearer of humanity's sin and shame. This imagery is poignantly fulfilled in the New Testament, where Jesus is mocked and spat upon during His trial and crucifixion.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Servant of the Lord
This passage is part of the "Servant Songs" in Isaiah, which prophetically describe the suffering and mission of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. The Servant willingly endures suffering and humiliation.

2. Prophet Isaiah
The author of the book, Isaiah was a prophet in the 8th century BC, delivering messages from God to the people of Judah and Jerusalem.

3. The People of Israel
The original audience of Isaiah's prophecies, who were often rebellious and in need of redemption and guidance.

4. Messianic Prophecy
This verse is a prophetic foreshadowing of the suffering that Jesus Christ would endure during His passion and crucifixion.

5. Roman Soldiers and Jewish Leaders
In the New Testament, these groups are involved in the physical and verbal abuse of Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 50:6.

Teaching Points

The Willingness to Suffer for Righteousness
Jesus' example in Isaiah 50:6 teaches us about the willingness to endure suffering for the sake of righteousness and obedience to God's will.

Humility in the Face of Persecution
The Servant's response to humiliation and abuse is a model of humility and trust in God, encouraging believers to respond similarly when facing persecution.

Prophetic Fulfillment in Christ
This verse underscores the accuracy and reliability of biblical prophecy, as it is fulfilled in the life and passion of Jesus Christ.

Endurance Through Faith
Believers are called to endure trials and suffering with faith, knowing that God is with them and will ultimately vindicate them.

The Cost of Discipleship
Following Christ may involve suffering and sacrifice, but it is a path that leads to eternal glory and reward.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Isaiah 50:6 enhance our understanding of the nature and mission of Jesus as the Messiah?

2. In what ways can we apply the example of the Servant's humility and endurance in our own lives when facing trials?

3. How do the New Testament accounts of Jesus' suffering and crucifixion fulfill the prophecy found in Isaiah 50:6?

4. What does this passage teach us about the cost of discipleship and the call to suffer for righteousness' sake?

5. How can we find strength and encouragement in the fulfillment of prophecy as seen in Isaiah 50:6 and its New Testament connections?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 26:67-68
and Mark 14:65
These passages describe how Jesus was spat upon and beaten, directly fulfilling the prophecy in Isaiah 50:6.

Philippians 2:7-8
Paul speaks of Jesus humbling Himself and becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross, which aligns with the humility and suffering described in Isaiah 50:6.

1 Peter 2:23
Peter highlights Jesus' response to suffering, noting that He did not retaliate or threaten, which reflects the attitude of the Servant in Isaiah 50:6.