Isaiah 63:1 Meaning and Explanation
“Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The prophet asks who this is, and the figure himself answers: the Mighty One, robed in blood, come from victory over Edom.
The Context of Isaiah 63:1
Isaiah shifts to a vision of one returning from warfare, stained with the blood of conquest. Edom represents the enemies of God's people; Bozrah was its capital.
What Does Isaiah 63:1 Mean?
We are watching a procession return from battle. A solitary figure strides toward us, garments drenched red, glorious in strength. The prophet's question hangs: who is this? And the figure answers his own riddle. I am he who speaks in righteousness. I am mighty to save. There is no uncertainty here, no debate about identity or power. The one who has executed judgment steps forward to claim his work.
This is the Servant of Isaiah 52 and 53, now vindicated and returning from his labor. He comes alone because his redemptive work is his alone to accomplish. His bloodstained garments are not a mark of defeat but of completed sacrifice. We who follow him understand that his righteousness is not a personal achievement but a gift extended to all who trust him. His strength is made available to those who are weak.
Isaiah 63:1 in the Original Language
Bozrah (Hebrew: בצרה) means 'sheepfold' or 'fortress,' the major city of Edom, symbolizing the seat of opposition to God's reign.
How to Apply Isaiah 63:1 Today
When we face our own failures and weakness, we can turn to the one who returns from his victory already accomplished. His blood-stained garments are the sign not of his defeat but of his triumph on our behalf. We trust in his righteousness, not our own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Isaiah 63:1
What does Isaiah 63:1 mean?
The prophet asks who this is, and the figure himself answers: the Mighty One, robed in blood, come from victory over Edom.
What is the context of Isaiah 63:1?
Isaiah shifts to a vision of one returning from warfare, stained with the blood of conquest. Edom represents the enemies of God's people; Bozrah was its capital.
How can I apply Isaiah 63:1 today?
When we face our own failures and weakness, we can turn to the one who returns from his victory already accomplished. His blood-stained garments are the sign not of his defeat but of his triumph on our behalf. We trust in his righteousness, not our own.