Isaiah 63:1

Edom. Edom here stands for the enemies of God and His people (see on ch. 34:5). The Edomites were descendants of Esau (Gen. 25:30), the twin brother of Jacob (Gen. 25:24-26). They had taken an attitude of persistent hostility toward Israel (see Gen. 27:41; Num. 20:14-21). Later, during the reign of Ahaz, in Isaiah’s day, the Edomites had raided Judah and had carried away captives (2 Chron. 28:17). In Amos 1:6-11 Edom is accused of associating itself with Gaza and Tyre in inhuman treatment of captives. In Isaiah 63:1-6 the prophet discusses Messiah’s victory over all opposition.

Dyed. Heb. chamus, from a root meaning “to be leavened,” “to be sour,” and thought to mean garments of a dazzling color. The LXX reads “red.”

Bozrah. An important city of Edom about 24 mi. (38.5 km.) south by east from the Dead Sea. Isaiah has already mentioned “a sacrifice in Bozrah” (see on ch. 34:5, 6).

To save. Isaiah points out the dual nature of the work Messiah was to do. He would reveal Himself “in the greatness of his strength” to destroy His enemies, but “mighty to save” His children.