Isaiah 58 is written into the return of the exiled Israelites from Babylon. Those who had been exiled were primarily the rich elite; the majority of people had stayed in Judah throughout, and most of them were 'the poor people of the land', (2 Kings 25, 12; Jeremiah 39, 10). Tensions between these two groups form the context of the passage.

During the exile, the Jews in Babylon had to emphasise aspects of their lifestyle in order to remain distinct as God's covenant community. Sabbath observance, circumcision, and other things related to purity such as Daniel chapter 1, were carefully practiced. The notion of the 'holiness of separation' reinforced their religious identity.

On their return, this community, the 'true Israel', retained these habits and practices. They sought control of temple, land and government at the expense of those who had remained in Judah. The tensions between the two groups could only have been made worse by the habits and attitudes of 'holiness of separation'.

The returnees were also very much aware that they remained under the authority of the Persian empire, and so they continued to seek God for deliverance.

This is what they are doing at the beginning of Isaiah 58; seeking, fasting, praying, crying out to God. They are doing the business of 2 Chronicles 7, 14, but are frustrated by God's lack of response.

The response is not what they expected. Isaiah speaks God's word into their situation, telling them that God will not hear their prayers unless they break out of the religious constructs they have built and engage with the needs of the poor who are all around them.