58:2 They seek me day after day;
they want to know my requirements, 1
like a nation that does what is right
and does not reject the law of their God.
They ask me for just decrees;
they want to be near God.
58:5 Is this really the kind of fasting I want? 2
Do I want a day when people merely humble themselves, 3
bowing their heads like a reed
and stretching out 4 on sackcloth and ashes?
Is this really what you call a fast,
a day that is pleasing to the Lord?
1 tn Heb “ways” (so KJV, NAB, NASB, NIV, NRSV, TEV); NLT “my laws.”
2 tn Heb “choose” (so NASB, NRSV); NAB “wish.”
3 tn Heb “a day when man humbles himself.” The words “Do I want” are supplied in the translation for stylistic reasons.
4 tn Or “making [their] bed.”