Isaiah 58

58:1-4 This is a charge against religious Israelites who were pleased with themselves because of their religious activities.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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).

58:10 your light . . . as bright as noon: God would rescue and vindicate his people (see Job 11:17; Ps 37:6).

58:12 a rebuilder of walls: Nehemiah would later fulfill this promise (see Neh 2:17).

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.

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).