In the introduction to this section [11.1-10] we have argued that this verse belongs here since it forms an inclusio with verse 1. The word root and the name Jesse also occur in verse 1. The phrase In that day usually introduces a section (see verse 11), but here it occurs at the end of a prophecy, thereby drawing attention to the content of the promise given.

The root of Jesse shall stand as an ensign to the peoples: For the root of Jesse, see the comments on Isa 11.1. Good News Translation expresses it clearly with “the new king from the royal line of David,” which is similar to its rendering in verse 1. The new Davidic ruler will have a special function, namely, he will be an ensign for the nations of the earth. An ensign can be a visible signal or symbol, like a flag carried by or near the leader of an army to keep his soldiers united around it. It can also have a non-military function as a symbol of a leader’s office or role, as well as be a rallying point for the people. In 5.26 the Hebrew word for ensign is rendered “signal.” Translators may render it the same way as there. Here peoples is plural and the sense is “other nations.” It has the same meaning as the nations in the next clause. The words ensign and nations also occur in verse 12, so they provide a link between this section and the next one.

Him shall the nations seek states that foreign nations will want to know the new king. Nations renders a Hebrew noun that is used in the plural for people other than the Israelites (see 2.2). The verb seek does not mean “trying to find something that was lost,” but carries the sense of “seeking out,” “gathering near” (see Good News Translation), or “wanting to know more about.” It can also have the broad meaning “obtain information from.” For this clause Contemporary English Version has “They will follow his advice” (similarly Die Bibel im heutigen Deutsch), and Bible en français courant says “The nations will come to consult him.”

And his dwellings shall be glorious is literally “and his resting places will be glorious/honored.” This could refer to the glory in connection with the Temple, Yahweh’s dwelling place. This is how Die Bibel im heutigen Deutsch translates the line: “From the place which he takes as his residence, God’s splendor will shine forth in all the world” (similarly Bible en français courant). This clause refers more likely to the splendor of the new king’s own residence. New Jewish Publication Society’s Tanakh has “And his abode shall be honored” (similarly New Jerusalem Bible, Revised English Bible). The Hebrew word rendered glorious comes from a root meaning “to be heavy” (see 6.3). Here it includes the sense of wealth and power. The clause says these will be part of the king’s residence. Good News Translation understands it to mean that honor given to a house means honor given to its owner. So it takes the clause as a reference to the honor given to the new king himself. Contemporary English Version also widens the interpretation with “and his own nation will become famous.” We recommend the rendering of New Jewish Publication Society’s Tanakh here.

For the translation of this verse we suggest:

• When that time comes, the Root of Jesse will stand as a symbol to people. He will be sought after by nations and his abode will be a place of great glory.

• In that time the Root of Jesse will be like a flag for the people. Nations will seek to know more about him. Where he lives will be a glorious place.

Quoted with permission from Ogden, Graham S. and Sterk, Jan. A Handbook on Isaiah. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2011. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .