What is the meaning of Isaiah 63:1?

Who is this coming from Edom, from Bozrah with crimson-stained garments?

Isaiah pictures a mighty Figure approaching from Edom, a nation long hostile to Israel (Genesis 25:30; Obadiah 1:10). Bozrah, its chief city, stands for the heart of that opposition.

• Edom often symbolizes all who oppose God (Isaiah 34:5-6; Malachi 1:4).

• The crimson-stained garments signal completed judgment—blood on the Victor’s robes rather than on His people (Revelation 19:13; Isaiah 34:8).

• The scene assures believers that no enemy, personal or national, escapes the Lord’s justice (Psalm 37:12-15).

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Who is this robed in splendor, marching in the greatness of His strength?

The watchman marvels at the grandeur of the approaching Warrior.

• His splendor recalls earlier visions of the Lord’s majesty (Isaiah 6:1-4; Ezekiel 1:26-28).

• “Marching” conveys steady, unstoppable advance (Exodus 15:3-6).

• Strength belongs uniquely to God (Psalm 24:8; Revelation 1:13-16). The Messiah does not struggle; He triumphs.

• For believers, that strength guarantees protection and victory over every spiritual foe (Ephesians 6:10-13).

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It is I, proclaiming vindication, mighty to save.

The Warrior now speaks, identifying Himself.

• “It is I”—the covenant Lord personally intervenes (Isaiah 41:4; John 8:58).

• “Proclaiming vindication” points to righteous judgment that clears God’s people and condemns their oppressors (Isaiah 42:1; Romans 12:19).

• “Mighty to save” pairs justice with mercy. The same power that crushes evil rescues the faithful (Isaiah 45:22; Hebrews 7:25).

• This passage foreshadows Christ’s final return: judgment for rebels, salvation for those washed in His blood (2 Thessalonians 1:7-10; Revelation 19:11-16).

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summary

Isaiah 63:1 unveils the Messiah as a conquering King who strides out of enemy territory, His garments stained by the defeat of wickedness. Edom represents every power that sets itself against God. The Lord’s splendor and strength prove His sovereignty, while His self-declaration—“mighty to save”—reassures believers of both perfect justice and unfailing deliverance.