Isaiah 42:4

"He won’t break a bruised reed. He won’t quench a dimly burning wick. He will faithfully bring justice."

Key Reflection

In Isaiah 42:4, God through the prophet reassures and describes his servant, likely referring to the future Messiah, who will be a compassionate and persistent leader. The imagery of not breaking a bruised reed symbolizes steadfast support for even the most fragile and marginalized individuals, while not quenching a dimly burning wick suggests sustaining hope in those who are nearly extinguished. These metaphors underscore God’s faithful commitment to justice, ensuring that no one is forgotten or left without guidance or aid.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

He shall not fail -He shall not be weak, feeble, or disheartened. However much there may be that shall tend to discourage, yet his purpose is fixed, and he will pursue it with steadiness and ardor until the great work shall be fully accomplished. There may be an allusion in the Hebrew word here (יכההyı̂kheh) to that which is applied to the flax (כההkēhâh); and the idea may be that he shall not become in his purposes like the smoking, flickering, dying flame of a lamp. There shall never be any indication, even amidst all embarrassments, that it is his intention to abandon his plan of extending the true religion through all the world.

More from Isaiah 42

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