United Commentaries

Isa.58.1-4

This is a charge against religious Israelites who were pleased with themselves because of their religious activities.

Isa.58.2

they act so pious (literally they seek me): They may have been truly committed to a religious form, but they failed to truly meet God in their religious activities.

Isa.58.3

Fasting should be a time of self-deprivation in order to focus on God and pleasing him (Lev 16:29; see Zech 7:5). However, these people were only interested in pleasing themselves and continuing in their sins.

Isa.58.5

This is a satirical portrayal of the people’s fasting as mere external piety without repentance and righteous acts. Ritualistic and insincere fasting is nothing but pomp.

Wearing burlap and ashes are expressions of sorrow and mourning.

please the Lord? The people erroneously believed that the Lord would bless them, if only they performed the right rituals.

Isa.58.6-7

True fasting creates an awareness of injustice and oppression and prompts the practitioner to reach out to help the needy in their struggles (see 42:7; Matt 25:35-36; Jas 1:27).

Isa.58.8

your salvation (literally your light): The light of the coming age (see 42:6-7; 60:1-3) will dawn on those who turn fully to the Lord. The night of divine judgment and oppression will be over.

your wounds: The nation of Israel was wounded when they were conquered and sent into exile.

protect you from behind: See also 52:12.

Isa.58.9

the Lord will answer: Cp. 1:15; see also 19:22.

Stop . . . spreading vicious rumors: God calls for an end to acts and words that destroy relationships (see Prov 6:12-14).

Isa.58.10

your light . . . as bright as noon: God would rescue and vindicate his people (see Job 11:17; Ps 37:6).

Isa.58.12

a rebuilder of walls: Nehemiah would later fulfill this promise (see Neh 2:17).

Isa.58.13

Like the practice of fasting, the Sabbath was intended to be an expression of self-denial and worship. It consists of delighting in the Lord, trusting him to provide for one’s needs while abstaining from work, and living in obedience to his will.

Isa.58.14

As people honor God through obedience, they themselves will be honored by God.

the inheritance I promised to your ancestor Jacob: The promised inheritance includes living with many descendants in the holy land and enjoying God’s presence, blessing, and protection (Gen 31:3; 35:9-12).