Who [is] this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this [that is] glorious in his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? I that speak in righteousness, mighty to save.
Ver. 1. Who is this that cometh from Edom?] It had been said, in Isaiah 62:11, "Behold, thy salvation (thy Saviour) cometh." Here, therefore, by an elegant hypotyposis, a the Sionidae, or saints, are brought in wondering at his coming in such a garb, and asking, Who is this? What gallant conqueror have we here? Edom, or Idumaea, signifieth red; Bozrah, (the chief city of Idumaea), a vintage. compare Isa 63:2 It may very well be also that this prophecy was uttered in vintage time, and therehence haply might grow the comparison here used. John the divine, representing to us Christ's coming to judgment, useth the same simile. Rev 19:13 Some also of good note, do understand this prophecy of Christ's triumphing over all his and our enemies (the Romish Edomites especially), at the last day.
With dyed garments.] Heb., Leavened, i.e., drenched, b besmeared.
This that is glorious in his apparel.] Which is the more glorious, because laced or embroidered with the blood of his enemies.
Walking in the greatness of his strength.] Fortiter grassans, walking and stalking, going in state, gressu grallatorio, emperor like, so as Epaminondas marched before his army; which, when Agesilaus, king of Spartans beheld, he cried out, O virum magnificum! c O that is a gallant man! "Ye shall see the Son of man coming with great power!" saith Christ.
I that speak in righteousness.] Christ's answer, q.d., " Fear not, little flock"; this strange garb and gait of mine portendeth no hurt but good to you; to whom whatsoever I have faithfully promised, I will powerfully perform. As King of Zion, I will
“ Parcere subiectis et debellare superbos. ”
At the last day also I will "come to be glorified in my saints, and to be admired in all them that believe." 2Th 1:10 See Revelation 19:11 .
Mighty to save.] Suficiens ad salvandum, sive Magister ad salvandum, a Master to save. This those lepers had learned, and therefore cried, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us." Luk 17:13
a Vivid description of a scene, event, or situation, bringing it, as it were, before the eyes of the hearer or reader.
b Metaph. a massa conspersa.
c Plutarch. in Epam.