Isaiah 58:1

CHAPTER LVIII

This elegant chapter contains a severe reproof of the Jews on

account of their vices, particularly their hypocrisy in

practising and relying on outward ceremonies, such as fasting

and bodily humiliation, without true repentance, 1-5.

It then lays down a clear and comprehensive summary of the

duties they owed to their fellow creatures, 6, 7.

Large promises of happiness and prosperity are likewise annexed

to the performance of these duties in a variety of the most

beautiful and striking images, 8-12.

Great temporal and spiritual blessedness of those who keep holy

the Sabbath day, 13, 14.

NOTES ON CHAP. LVIII

Verse Isaiah 58:1. Cry aloud, spare not] Never was a louder cry against the hypocrisy, nor a more cutting reproof of the wickedness, of a people professing a national established religion, having all the forms of godliness without a particle of its power. This chapter has been often appointed to be read on political fast days for the success of wars carried on for - God knows what purposes, and originating in - God knows what motives. Politically speaking, was ever any thing more injudicious?