Isaiah 58:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 58:7
7 Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?
Chapter Context
Isaiah 58 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, righteousness, mercy. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-14: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 58:7
7 Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?
Analysis
The fast God chooses continues with practical expressions: "Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry?" Sharing food with the famished is basic covenant obligation (Deuteronomy 15:7-11, Leviticus 25:35-37). "That thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house?" means providing shelter for the homeless—the Hebrew merudim (cast out/wandering) describes those displaced and destitute. "When thou seest the naked, that thou cover him?" addresses clothing the exposed. The climactic phrase strikes at selfish isolation: "and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?" The Hebrew basar (flesh) means blood relatives, but the prophetic tradition extends this to all humanity (Genesis 9:6, Acts 17:26). This verse requires breaking through self-centered existence to genuine other-centered love. From a Reformed perspective, this reflects the second table of the law—love of neighbor flowing from love of God (Matthew 22:37-40). These aren't additions to faith but evidence of faith. Those justified by grace demonstrate transformation through works of mercy. This anticipates Jesus' sheep and goats judgment, where serving the hungry, homeless, and naked reveals true discipleship (Matthew 25:31-46).
Historical Context
The returned exiles faced economic hardship, and rather than sharing resources, many exploited their fellow Jews (Nehemiah 5:1-5). The wealthy pursued personal comfort while their brothers struggled—exactly what this verse condemns. The prophetic tradition consistently demanded economic justice and generosity toward the vulnerable (Ezekiel 18:7, Amos 2:6-8, Micah 2:1-2). The early church took this seriously, sharing possessions to ensure no one lacked (Acts 2:44-45, 4:32-35).
Reflection
- How does our treatment of the physically needy reveal the genuineness of our faith?
- In what ways might we 'hide ourselves from our own flesh' through selective concern or willful blindness?
- What practical steps can we take to share bread, shelter, and clothing with those in need?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 58:10, Proverbs 22:9, 25:21, 28:27, Ezekiel 18:7, 18:16