King James Version

What Does Isaiah 47:4 Mean?

Isaiah 47:4 in the King James Version says “As for our redeemer, the LORD of hosts is his name, the Holy One of Israel.” — study this verse from Isaiah chapter 47 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“As for our redeemer, the LORD of hosts is his name, the Holy One of Israel.”

Isaiah 47:4 · KJV

Salvation

Context

2

Take the millstones, and grind meal: uncover thy locks, make bare the leg, uncover the thigh, pass over the rivers.

3

Thy nakedness shall be uncovered, yea, thy shame shall be seen: I will take vengeance, and I will not meet thee as a man.

4

As for our redeemer, the LORD of hosts is his name, the Holy One of Israel.

5

Sit thou silent, and get thee into darkness, O daughter of the Chaldeans: for thou shalt no more be called, The lady of kingdoms.

6

I was wroth with my people, I have polluted mine inheritance, and given them into thine hand: thou didst shew them no mercy; upon the ancient hast thou very heavily laid thy yoke.

Read Isaiah 47 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The interjectory 'As for our redeemer' interrupts the taunt song with worship, identifying God as 'go'el' - the kinsman-redeemer who avenges wrongs and buys back enslaved family. The titles 'LORD of hosts' and 'Holy One of Israel' combine military sovereignty with covenant relationship. This anticipates Christ as ultimate Redeemer who conquers enemies and purchases His bride.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The go'el concept (Leviticus 25, Ruth) required a relative who was able and willing to pay redemption price. Israel's go'el must be powerful enough to overthrow Babylon and faithful enough to keep covenant promises.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does understanding God as your 'kinsman redeemer' deepen your assurance of salvation?
  2. What enemies (sin, death, Satan) has your Redeemer conquered on your behalf?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
גֹּאֲלֵ֕נוּ1 of 6

“As for our redeemer”

H1350

to redeem (according to the middle eastern law of kinship), i.e., to be the next of kin (and as such to buy back a relative's property, marry his wido

יְהוָ֥ה2 of 6

“the LORD”

H3068

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

צְבָא֖וֹת3 of 6

“of hosts”

H6635

a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci

שְׁמ֑וֹ4 of 6

“is his name”

H8034

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

קְד֖וֹשׁ5 of 6

“the Holy One”

H6918

sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) god (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary

יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃6 of 6

“of Israel”

H3478

he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Isaiah. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Isaiah 47:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Isaiah 47:4 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Isaiah 44:6Isaiah 49:26Jeremiah 50:33-34Isaiah 41:14Isaiah 43:14Isaiah 43:3

Test Your Knowledge

Isaiah 47 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterIsaiah Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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