The terms "pierced" and "crushed" hold significant theological and prophetic weight within the biblical narrative, particularly in the context of messianic prophecy and the atoning work of Jesus Christ. These terms are often explored in relation to the suffering servant passages and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in the New Testament.

Pierced

The concept of being "pierced" is notably found in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Isaiah. Isaiah 53:5 states, "But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed." This passage is traditionally understood as a messianic prophecy foretelling the suffering and sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. The piercing here symbolizes the physical and spiritual suffering endured by the Messiah on behalf of humanity's sins.

In the New Testament, the fulfillment of this prophecy is seen in the crucifixion of Jesus. John 19:34 records, "Instead, one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and immediately blood and water flowed out." This act of piercing is seen as a direct fulfillment of the prophecy in Zechariah 12:10 , "Then they will look on Me, the One they have pierced." The piercing of Jesus' side is emblematic of His sacrificial death and the outpouring of grace and redemption for believers.

Crushed

The term "crushed" in Isaiah 53:5 is equally significant, as it conveys the depth of suffering and the weight of sin borne by the Messiah. The Hebrew word used here, "daka," implies being broken or shattered, indicating the totality of the suffering endured. This crushing is not merely physical but also spiritual, as it represents the bearing of divine wrath and judgment for sin.

In the New Testament, the crushing of Jesus is understood in the context of His atoning sacrifice. Romans 4:25 states, "He was delivered over to death for our trespasses and was raised to life for our justification." The crushing of Jesus is seen as necessary for the reconciliation between God and humanity, fulfilling the requirements of divine justice and enabling the possibility of peace and healing for believers.

The imagery of being pierced and crushed underscores the profound love and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It highlights the gravity of sin and the lengths to which God went to redeem His people. These terms serve as a reminder of the cost of salvation and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through the suffering and death of His Son.