Isaiah 4:2

In that day shall the branch of the Lord be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and comely for them that are escaped of Israel.

Isaiah 4:2 (KJV)

Context

Isaiah 4:2 belongs to a larger section of Isaiah (chapters 2-4) that moves from prophecies of judgment to promises of future blessing for a purified remnant. The immediate context follows a description of judgment upon the daughters of Zion and the removal of the nation’s leaders, making the promise of beauty and glory for the Branch a dramatic contrast.

Meaning

The phrase “In that day” points to a future time of divine intervention and fulfillment of God’s purposes, often associated with the Messianic age. “The branch of the Lord” is a Messianic title, not a reference to a righteous human leader or a general principle, but to the Messiah himself. This interpretation is supported by the Targum and later Jewish commentators like Kimchi. The branch symbolizes growth and vitality, and the New Testament identifies Jesus as the fulfillment of this prophecy. As the branch of the Lord, Jesus brings beauty, glory, and life to God’s people.

The description “beautiful and glorious” conveys the splendor, majesty, and excellence of the branch, emphasizing not only physical appearance but also character and authority. The parallel phrase, “the fruit of the earth,” is also understood as a Messianic reference, emphasizing his humanity—he sprang from the earth as a man, being the fruit of a woman. This highlights the humility of Christ’s human nature while also showing he is a fruitful branch that would fill the earth with fruit.

The phrase “excellent and comely” indicates that this fruit will be outstanding, beautiful, and attractive—beyond measure, bringing joy and satisfaction to God’s people. “Them that are escaped of Israel” denotes the remnant of Israel—those who survived judgment and remained faithful. This remnant will receive the blessings and benefits of the Messiah’s reign, highlighting God’s continual faithfulness despite Israel’s unfaithfulness. The promise is for those who have been purified through judgment and have escaped, not for the nation as a whole in its rebellious state.

Application

Isaiah 4:2 looks forward to a time when the branch of the Lord, the promised Messiah, will bring beauty, glory, and abundant blessings to His people. It points to Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophecy, offering both spiritual and material prosperity to those who trust in Him, and it underscores God’s steadfast love and grace toward His faithful remnant even in times of judgment.