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In the figures implied the prophet represents extreme adversity; and by metaphors which he distinctly puts forth he describes renewed prosperity; and he connects the marvellous change from the deepest adversity to the highest prosperity with the avoidance or laying aside of three sins which then beset the people of God, and with the performance of two ordinary duties.

1. The besetting sins.

(1) Oppression "If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke," i.e. oppression.

(2) Scorn and contempt. "The putting forth of the finger" is the spirit that speaks in the, "Thou fool!"(3) "And speaking vanity" — evil speaking generally.

2. The duties.

(1) "And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul" — i.e. give, serve, minister, according as men about you have need, and according as you have ability and opportunity.

(2) "And satisfy the afflicted soul" — i.e. visit the widow and fatherless in their affliction — comfort those that mourn — endeavour according to your power to wipe away the tears from the eyes of all the sorrowful.

(S. Martin.)

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KJV: Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity;

WEB: Then you shall call, and Yahweh will answer; you shall cry, and he will say, 'Here I am.' "If you take away from the midst of you the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking wickedly;