In Psalm 22 there are several descriptions of the Lord Jesus that point to His suffering and His unique person and position as the Messiah. First, in our verse we hear Him say prophetically, “I am a worm, and no man.” This word for worm appears about 31 times in the Old Testament and is often translated “scarlet” or “crimson.”

The worm that is being referred to here is called tola; it is a little worm that feeds on plants, and when crushed it makes a beautiful scarlet dye that is permanent and expensive, worn by the wealthy. In fact, the literal meaning of the word scarlet is “the splendor of the worm.” When used of the Lord, it reminds us that He had to be crushed in order for His glory and splendor be seen. It speaks of His humiliation at the hands of men, a reproach of men and despised by the people. He was crushed and put to death in order that you and I might live and be clothed in the glorious garments of our salvation!

The expression, “and no man,” actually means, “a nobody.” This reminds us of what we read in Philippians 2:5–7: “Christ Jesus … made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.”

Another expression is found in Psalm 22:20: “Deliver Me from the sword, My precious life from the power of the dog.” The phrase “My precious life” is translated by some as “my only one.” This expression is used five times in the New Testament in reference to the Lord Jesus as the “only begotten.” In Genesis 22:2, it is used of Isaac who is a picture of the Lord Jesus. The Lord Jesus is the only unique eternal Son of God. Even while hanging upon the cross, after His suffering when He had yielded up His spirit, the centurion solider declared, “Truly this was the Son of God” (Mt. 27:54)!