The verse highlights a stark contrast: the utter despised state of the Servant, even being abhorred by "the nation," yet destined for supreme honor where kings and princes will prostrate themselves. This isn't just about a future reward for suffering; it emphasizes that this reversal and ultimate adoration is entirely because of the LORD's faithfulness and choice, not the Servant's own merit or power.
Thus says the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel and his Holy One, to one deeply despised, abhorred by the nation, the servant of rulers: “Kings shall see and arise; princes, and they shall prostrate themselves; because of the LORD, who is faithful, the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you.”
English Standard Version (ESV)
This passage is part of a larger prophecy where God addresses his suffering servant, who is deeply despised and rejected by humanity. The servant has been faithful despite immense hardship and rejection, and God promises him ultimate vindication and universal honor. Despite being scorned by his own people and treated as a mere servant by rulers, this servant will be exalted, and kings and princes will pay him homage, recognizing God's faithfulness in choosing him.
The Messiah is described as 'deeply despised' and 'abhorred by the nation.' How does this stark contrast set the stage for His ultimate glory?
This verse presents a profound paradox: the one God calls 'Redeemer' and 'Holy One' is also the one who experiences the deepest scorn.
The Weight of Rejection
Despite the initial scorn, the Servant's future is one of supreme authority. What makes this transformation possible?
The turning point in this verse isn't human effort but God's unchanging faithfulness and sovereign choice.
From the Dust to the Throne
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Understand the original words
YHWH · Hebrew Noun
The LORD (Yahweh), the God of Israel. The term refers to the sovereign, self-existent Creator who enters into covenant relationship with His people.
go'el · Hebrew Verb/Participle
One who buys back or liberates someone or something from slavery, debt, or captivity by paying a price. God is the Redeemer who delivers Israel from their enemies and from sin.
qadosh · Hebrew Adjective/Noun
Refers to God's essential nature of being separate from all that is common, profane, or sinful. It highlights His absolute purity, majesty, and moral perfection.
This prophecy anticipates a future Servant of God who will be deeply despised by humanity and rulers, yet ultimately exalted. The historical context shows a recurring pattern of Israel's suffering and God's faithfulness in bringing about redemption, culminating in the New Testament understanding of Christ's suffering and eventual universal recognition.
c. 740 BC— this verse
Isaiah Delivers Prophecy
Isaiah delivers this prophecy during a time of significant geopolitical tension in the Ancient Near East, likely during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah in Judah.
c. 586 BC
Babylonian Exile Begins
The destruction of Jerusalem and the First Temple, leading to the exile of many Judeans to Babylon. This event profoundly impacted Jewish identity and their understanding of God's promises.
c. 539 BC
Cyrus the Great's Edict
Cyrus the Great conquers Babylon and issues an edict allowing exiled peoples, including the Jews, to return to their homelands and rebuild their temples.
c. 440 BC
Second Temple Construction
Following the return from exile, the Second Temple in Jerusalem is completed. This marked a significant period of restoration but also continued subjugation under foreign powers.
c. 332 BC
Hellenistic Period Begins
Alexander the Great conquers the region, ushering in the Hellenistic period, which introduced Greek culture and influence, and later led to significant religious and political conflicts.
c. 198 BC - 63 BC
Roman Influence Grows
The Roman Republic gradually expands its influence in the region, eventually leading to direct Roman control over Judea.
c. AD 30-33
Crucifixion of Jesus
Jesus of Nazareth, whom Christian tradition identifies as the 'servant' spoken of in Isaiah 49, is crucified under Roman authority in Jerusalem. This event is seen as the ultimate fulfillment of his despised and suffering role.
This Psalm describes the Messiah as 'despised and rejected by mankind, and hated by the people,' mirroring the deep contempt mentioned in Isaiah 49:7.
Isaiah 53:2-3This passage directly addresses the suffering servant who is 'despised and rejected by men,' elaborating on the shame and sorrow that the servant endures, which Isaiah 49:7 predicts will be overcome.
Matthew 2:11The wise men, who could be considered princes or royalty from distant lands, came to worship the infant Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy of 'princes also shall worship' in Isaiah 49:7.
Matthew 27:27-31This passage shows Roman rulers and soldiers treating Jesus as a servant and mocking him, illustrating the 'servant of rulers' aspect described in Isaiah 49:7.
Philippians 2:9-11This New Testament passage speaks of Jesus being highly exalted by God, so that 'every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,' echoing the future exaltation and worship promised to the despised servant in Isaiah 49:7.
pooleIsaiah 49:7: "Thus saith the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers, Kings shall see and arise, princes also shall worship, because of the LORD that is faithful, and the Holy One of Israel, and he shall choose thee."
His Holy One; the Holy One of Israel, as he is frequently called. To him whom man despiseth; to Christ, to whom, as he was in the days of his flesh, this description doth most truly and ful…
wesleyIsaiah 49:7: "Thus saith the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers, Kings shall see and arise, princes also shall worship, because of the LORD that is faithful, and the Holy One of Israel, and he shall choose thee."
49:7 His Holy One - The Holy One of Israel. To him - To Christ, to whom, in the days of his flesh, this description fully agrees: for men, both Jews and Gentiles among whom he lived, did de…
The verse highlights a stark contrast: the utter despised state of the Servant, even being abhorred by "the nation," yet destined for supreme honor where kings and princes will prostrate themselves. This isn't just about a future reward for suffering; it emphasizes that this reversal and ultimate adoration is entirely because of the LORD's faithfulness and choice, not the Servant's own merit or power.
This passage is part of a larger prophecy where God addresses his suffering servant, who is deeply despised and rejected by humanity. The servant has been faithful despite immense hardship and rejection, and God promises him ultimate vindication and universal honor. Despite being scorned by his own people and treated as a mere servant by rulers, this servant will be exalted, and kings and princes will pay him homage, recognizing God's faithfulness in choosing him.
This passage is part of a larger prophecy where God addresses his suffering servant, who is deeply despised and rejected by humanity. The servant has been faithful despite immense hardship and rejection, and God promises him ultimate vindication and universal honor. Despite being scorned by his own people and treated as a mere servant by rulers, this servant will be exalted, and kings and princes will pay him homage, recognizing God's faithfulness in choosing him.
"Thus says the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel and his Holy One, to one deeply despised, abhorred by the nation, the servant of rulers: “Kings shall see and arise; princes, and they shall prostrate themselves;…" — The verse highlights a stark contrast: the utter despised state of the Servant, even being abhorred by "the nation," yet destined for supreme honor where kings and princes will prostrate themselves.…
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Last reviewed October 2026
