2 They seek me day after day,and desire to know my ways,Like a nation that has done what is justand not abandoned the judgment of their God;They ask of me just judgments,they desire to draw near to God.
3 “Why do we fast, but you do not see it?afflict ourselves, but you take no note?”See, on your fast day you carry out your own pursuits,and drive all your laborers.
4 See, you fast only to quarrel and fightand to strike with a wicked fist!Do not fast as you do todayto make your voice heard on high!
5 Is this the manner of fasting I would choose,a day to afflict oneself?To bow one’s head like a reed,and lie upon sackcloth and ashes?Is this what you call a fast,a day acceptable to the Lord?
6 Is this not, rather, the fast that I choose:releasing those bound unjustly,untying the thongs of the yoke;Setting free the oppressed,breaking off every yoke?
7 Is it not sharing your bread with the hungry,bringing the afflicted and the homeless into your house;Clothing the naked when you see them,and not turning your back on your own flesh?
8 Then your light shall break forth like the dawn,and your wound shall quickly be healed;Your vindication shall go before you,and the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.