Bible Commentaries
Isaiah 61

Verses 1-11

1. The speaker is the prophet, either in his own person, or in that of the Servant of Jehovah. The mission here spoken of is identical with the mission of the Servant as already indicated; e.g. to bind up, etc. (cp. Isaiah 42:3, Isaiah 42:7), and, again, proclaim liberty, etc. (cp. Isaiah 42:7; Isaiah 49:9). This phrase is taken from the law of the year of jubilee (Leviticus 25:8-10). Our Lord applies the passage to His own work in Luke 4:16. Anointed] i.e. to prophetic office (1 Kings 19:16).

2. The period of God’s favour (acceptable year) is contrasted with the short time that His wrath endures (day of vengeance).

3. Appoint] assign to, provide. Beauty] RV ’a garland.’

4. The outcome of the mission recounted in Isaiah 61:1 is the same as the issue of the Servant’s work (Isaiah 49:8).

5. Other nations represented as filling menial offices.

6. Israel will attain its original ideal (Exodus 19:6). Riches.. Gentiles] wealth of the nations. In their glory, etc.] RM ’to their glory shall ye succeed.’

7. Double] i.e. by way of compensation or reward (Isaiah 40:2).

8. Judgment] i.e. justice. For burnt offering] RV ’with iniquity.’ The reference is to the spoliation of which Israel is the victim.

Direct their work] RV ’give them their recompence.’

9. Known] i.e. renowned.

10. Decketh.. ornaments] lit. ’decketh himself with a priestly head-dress.’ The allusion is to the custom of the bridegroom wearing a special head-dress on the wedding day (Song of Solomon 3:11).

11. As the earth, etc.] i.e. as surely as the seasons come round. Righteousness] i.e. the justification of his people in the eyes of the world.