What the Ass and the Ox Know—But the Scholars Don’t

The first chapter of Isaiah contains one of the most powerful prophetic passages in the entire Bible. The Lord, through the prophet, castigates his people Israel for rebelling. As a result, the country lies desolate, devoured by Israel’s enemies. The Lord rejects the sacrifice of his people. What is the sacrifice the Lord desires? Isaiah 1:12ff. “Pursue justice, Champion the oppressed, Give the orphan his rights, Plead the widow’s cause.” The Lord pleads with his people: “Come now, let us reason together … Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow … If you […]