Isaiah 58:3-5

58:3 They lament, ‘Why don’t you notice when we fast?

Why don’t you pay attention when we humble ourselves?’

Look, at the same time you fast, you satisfy your selfish desires,

you oppress your workers.

58:4 Look, your fasting is accompanied by arguments, brawls,

and fistfights.

Do not fast as you do today,

trying to make your voice heard in heaven.

58:5 Is this really the kind of fasting I want?

Do I want a day when people merely humble themselves,

bowing their heads like a reed

and stretching out on sackcloth and ashes?

Is this really what you call a fast,

a day that is pleasing to the Lord?


tn The words “they lament” are supplied in the translation for clarification.

tn Heb “you find pleasure”; NASB “you find your desire.”

tn Or perhaps, “debtors.” See HALOT 865 s.v. * עָצֵב.

tn Heb “you fast for” (so NASB); NRSV “you fast only to quarrel.”

tn Heb “and for striking with a sinful fist.”

tn Heb “choose” (so NASB, NRSV); NAB “wish.”

tn Heb “a day when man humbles himself.” The words “Do I want” are supplied in the translation for stylistic reasons.

tn Or “making [their] bed.”