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Book of Isaiah - Chapter 42 - Verse 2

42:2
He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street.

Meaning

This verse speaks to the character of the coming Messiah, portraying him as gentle and meek. It portrays an image of humility and restraint, showcasing his quiet and unassuming nature. The verse suggests that this figure will not draw attention to himself through extravagant displays or loud declarations. Instead, he will carry out his mission quietly and without fanfare. This portrayal of the Messiah aligns with the biblical concept of servant leadership, where authority is exercised through service and humility rather than through power and dominance. It highlights the idea that true leadership is not about seeking attention or glory, but about serving others with compassion and grace. In the context of the larger biblical narrative, this verse foreshadows the sacrificial nature of Jesus Christ, who would come to earth not to assert his power, but to offer himself as a humble servant for the salvation of humanity.

Theological Overview

This verse, found in Isaiah 42:2, speaks about the character of the servant of the Lord. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the humility and gentleness of the servant. The phrase "He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street" suggests that the servant will not boast or draw attention to himself. Instead, he will quietly go about his work, bringing justice to the nations in a humble and unassuming manner. This verse is often seen as a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, who fulfilled the role of the suffering servant in the New Testament. Word studies on this verse reveal that the word "cry" can also be translated as "shout" or "yell," emphasizing the quiet and gentle nature of the servant. The emphasis on not lifting up his voice or causing it to be heard in the street underscores the servant's meekness and lack of desire for self-promotion. Overall, this verse teaches us about the importance of humility and quiet service in fulfilling God's purposes.

American Standard Version

He will not cry, nor lift up his voice, nor cause it to be heard in the street.
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