Isaiah 57:15

high and lofty An Isaianic phrase, ch. Isaiah 2:12 ff., Isaiah 6:1 (cf. Isaiah 52:13).

that inhabiteth eternity Rather, "that sitteth (enthroned) for ever."

I dwell in the high and holyplace] The strict rendering perhaps is "on high and Holy (as a holy One) I dwell." Cf. Isaiah 66:1.

of a contrite and humble spirit crushed and of a lowly spirit. The expressions do not necessarily imply what we mean by contrition the crushing effect of remorse for sin but only the subdued, self-distrusting spirit which is produced by affliction. Comp. ch. Isaiah 66:2; Psalms 51:17.

The word "holy" (here used as a proper name, see on ch. Isaiah 40:25) and the expressions "high and lofty" seem to shew the influence of Isaiah's vision (ch. 6). The thought of the verse is very striking. It is the paradox of religion that Jehovah's holiness, which places Him at an infinite distance from human pride and greatness, brings Him near to the humble in spirit (comp. Psalms 113:5-6; Psalms 138:6). No contrast is indicated: Jehovah dwells on high and(not but yet) with the lowly. It would be a mistake, however, to infer that holiness means or even includes gracious condescension. The two attributes are not mutually exclusive, but still less are they identical. The holiness of God is expressed by saying that He dwells on high; His dwelling with the contrite is another fact which manifests a different aspect of His character. Through the discipline of the Exile Israel had come to know God in both characters as infinitely exalted and infinitely condescending; it had learned that peace with God, the high and lofty One, is reached through humility, which is the recognition of His holiness and majesty.