Commentary upon the Prophecy of Isaiah

Some translate the word Veze, Contemned: others, Contemptible; which I approve of. But this augments the misery of the people, when the Prophet calls them despised^* in soul: for many are despised of others, who notwithstanding are worthy of honour, in regard of the graces wherewith they be endued: or being puffed up with pride, cease not with an higher contempt, to tread under their feet the contempt of others. But Isaiah affirms, that the Jews are not more despised and contemptible in the eyes of others, then they are in their own. Thus then he notes out an exceeding ignominy and low estate; therewithal comprehending the affliction of the Spirit: to teach them that God shall come in fit time to succour them, when they shall be throughly humbled.

Some translate the word Veze, Contemned: others, Contemptible; which I approoue of. But this augments the miserie of the people, when the Prophet calles them despised^* in soule: for many are despised of others, who notwithstanding are worthy of honour, in regard of the graces wherewith they be indued: or being puffed vp with pride, cease not with an higher contempt, to treade vnder their feete the contempt of others. But Isaiah affirmes, that the Iewes are not more despised and contemptible in the eies of others, then they are in their owne. Thus then hee notes out an exceeding ignominie and low estate; therewithall comprehending the affliction of the Spirit: to teach them that God shall come in fit time to succour them, when they shall be throughly humbled.

1. *Or, in himself.Or, in himselfe.

I see no reason why some have changed the number in the word nation, seeing the Prophet useth the singular number Goi; it being certain that he addresseth his speech to the posterity of Abraham. Afterwards he calls them servants of rulers: as if he should say, that mighty tyrants oppressed them: for by the word Moschelim, he means those that have so much force and power, that it is an hard matter to escape their hands.