Isaiah 58:10

KJV

And [if] thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness [be] as the noonday:

KJV (with Strong's)

And if thou draw out {H6329} thy soul {H5315} to the hungry {H7457}, and satisfy {H7646} the afflicted {H6031} soul {H5315}; then shall thy light {H216} rise {H2224} in obscurity {H2822}, and thy darkness {H653} be as the noonday {H6672}:

Complete Jewish Bible

generously offer food to the hungry and meet the needs of the person in trouble; then your light will rise in the darkness, and your gloom become like noon.

Berean Standard Bible

and if you give yourself to the hungry and satisfy the afflicted soul, then your light will go forth in the darkness, and your night will be like noonday.

American Standard Version

and if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul: then shall thy light rise in darkness, and thine obscurity be as the noonday;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 58:10 is a pivotal verse within a prophetic discourse challenging superficial religiosity, asserting that genuine faith is demonstrated through active, compassionate engagement with the vulnerable. It declares that when individuals or communities pour out their very being to meet the needs of the hungry and afflicted, God promises a profound spiritual and practical transformation, turning their deepest "darkness" into the clarity and brilliance of "noonday" light. This verse encapsulates the divine principle that outward acts of mercy, stemming from an inward disposition of empathy, unlock God's promised illumination and blessing, contrasting sharply with the empty rituals of the unrighteous.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 58 serves as a powerful prophetic indictment against Israel's hypocritical religious practices. The people were diligently observing fasts and other rituals, yet their hearts were far from God, and their actions demonstrated injustice and oppression towards their neighbors. The preceding verses, particularly [Isaiah 58:3-5](/isaiah/58-3 "Isaiah 58:3-5 - God's Rejection of Hypocritical Fasting"), detail the people's complaint that God was not acknowledging their fasting, to which God responds by exposing their self-serving motives. He then defines the "true fast" in [Isaiah 58:6-7](/isaiah/58-6 "Isaiah 58:6-7 - The True Fast Defined") as acts of liberation, justice, and practical care for the poor and oppressed. Verse 10 builds directly upon this definition, articulating the internal disposition—"draw out thy soul"—that must accompany these outward actions, and the glorious blessings that flow from such authentic obedience. The chapter culminates in promises of restoration and delight in the Lord for those who embrace this true fast, as seen in [Isaiah 58:11-14](/isaiah/58-11 "Isaiah 58:11-14 - Blessings of the True Fast").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Isaiah, particularly chapters 40-66, often addresses the exilic and post-exilic periods, where the people of Israel were grappling with their identity and relationship with God after the trauma of exile. Religious rituals like fasting were central to their worship and attempts to seek God's favor. However, the prophets consistently critiqued the disconnect between ritual observance and ethical living. In ancient Near Eastern societies, care for the poor, widows, and orphans was a fundamental aspect of righteous governance and community life, often mandated by covenant law (e.g., [Deuteronomy 15:7-11](/deuteronomy/15-7 "Deuteronomy 15:7-11 - Lending to the Poor")). The cultural expectation was that God would bless those who adhered to His laws, but Isaiah clarifies that this blessing was contingent not merely on outward conformity, but on inward transformation expressed through social justice and compassion. The "darkness" and "obscurity" mentioned in the verse could also allude to the national distress, oppression, or spiritual blindness experienced by the people due to their unfaithfulness.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully underscores several core themes within Isaiah and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Authentic Worship vs. Hypocrisy**, emphasizing that God values genuine compassion and justice over empty religious ritual, a theme echoed throughout the prophetic books (e.g., [Amos 5:21-24](/amos/5-21 "Amos 5:21-24 - God Desires Justice, Not Just Rituals")). Secondly, it champions **Active Benevolence and Social Justice**, portraying true piety as an outward outpouring of self for the benefit of the vulnerable, aligning with the call to care for the "least of these" found in [Matthew 25:31-46](/matthew/25-31 "Matthew 25:31-46 - The Judgment of the Nations"). Thirdly, the imagery of "light" rising in "obscurity" speaks to **Divine Illumination and Blessing**, signifying that God's favor, guidance, and clarity are bestowed upon those who live righteously, transforming their circumstances from despair to hope and prosperity, a concept also present in [Psalm 112:4](/psalm/112-4 "Psalm 112:4 - Light for the Upright"). Finally, it touches on the **Transformation of the Soul**, suggesting that true self-giving leads to personal and communal flourishing, reflecting God's character.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **draw out (Hebrew, _pûwq'_):** H6329. This primitive root implies "to issue," "to furnish," or "to secure." In this context, combined with "soul," it conveys the active, intentional act of pouring out or extending one's very being, resources, or vitality for the benefit of another. It's not a passive offering but an energetic, self-giving release, suggesting a deep, internal commitment rather than a superficial or reluctant act.
* **soul (Hebrew, _nephesh'_):** H5315. Derived from a word meaning "to breathe," _nephesh_ refers broadly to a breathing creature, vitality, or the entire self—encompassing one's life, appetite, mind, desire, and person. When one "draws out" their _nephesh_, it signifies giving of oneself completely, not just external resources, but one's inner being, empathy, time, and emotional energy. It speaks to a holistic, heartfelt involvement with the suffering of others.
* **obscurity (Hebrew, _chôshek'_):** H2822. This word denotes "darkness," but figuratively extends to misery, destruction, death, ignorance, sorrow, and wickedness. In this verse, "obscurity" refers to a state of distress, confusion, lack of understanding, or adverse circumstances. The promise that light will rise in this "obscurity" signifies a reversal of misfortune, a divine intervention that brings clarity, joy, and prosperity to situations previously marked by despair or spiritual blindness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry":** This clause sets the condition for the divine promise. "Drawing out one's soul" (Hebrew _pûwq nephesh_) signifies a profound act of self-giving, extending one's inner being, empathy, and resources to those in need. It implies a deep, personal identification with the suffering of the "hungry" (Hebrew _râʻêb_, H7457), who represent not only those lacking food but anyone in a state of deep deprivation or spiritual emptiness. This is more than mere charity; it is an outpouring of one's very essence.
* **"and satisfy the afflicted soul;":** This second conditional clause reinforces the first, emphasizing practical action. To "satisfy" (Hebrew _sâbaʻ_, H7646) means to fill to satisfaction, to provide abundantly until needs are met. The "afflicted soul" (Hebrew _nephesh ʻânâh_, H6031) refers to those who are depressed, humbled, or suffering, whether physically, emotionally, or spiritually. This calls for active intervention and tangible provision, moving beyond pity to effective relief.
* **"then shall thy light rise in obscurity,":** This is the first part of the promised outcome. "Light" (Hebrew _ʼôwr_, H216) symbolizes divine favor, guidance, prosperity, joy, and spiritual understanding. "Rise" (Hebrew _zârach_, H2224) evokes the dawning of the sun, bringing clarity and warmth. This light will emerge "in obscurity" (Hebrew _chôshek_, H2822), meaning in the midst of distress, confusion, or difficult circumstances. It promises that God will illuminate paths and bring clarity where there was once darkness.
* **"and thy darkness [be] as the noonday:":** This final clause intensifies the promise. The "darkness" (Hebrew _ʼăphêlâh_, H653), representing misfortune, gloom, or adversity, will be transformed into the brightness of "noonday" (Hebrew _tsôhar_, H6672). This is a hyperbolic expression of complete and glorious transformation, implying that even the most challenging or dismal aspects of one's life will be saturated with God's radiant blessing, becoming clear, vibrant, and abundantly manifest.

#### Literary Devices
Isaiah 58:10 masterfully employs several **literary devices** to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, where "light" and "darkness" are used to represent spiritual and circumstantial states. "Light" symbolizes divine favor, blessing, clarity, prosperity, and joy, while "darkness" stands for adversity, confusion, suffering, and spiritual blindness. The verse also utilizes stark **Contrast**, juxtaposing the "obscurity" and "darkness" of the present condition with the promised "light" and "noonday" brightness. This creates a powerful image of transformation, highlighting the radical shift God can bring about. Furthermore, the structure of the verse is a **Conditional Promise** (an "if-then" statement), a common prophetic device. The "if" clauses detail the required human action (compassion and satisfaction of the needy), and the "then" clauses outline the guaranteed divine response (illumination and blessing). This structure clearly establishes the cause-and-effect relationship between righteous living and divine favor.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 58:10 profoundly articulates a core theological truth: God's delight is not in mere ritualistic observance, but in a faith that actively manifests as compassion and justice. It reveals that true spirituality is inextricably linked to how we treat the vulnerable and marginalized. This verse underscores the divine character, which is inherently merciful and just, and it posits that when humanity reflects these attributes, it aligns with God's will and experiences His transformative blessing. The "light" promised is not just material prosperity, but a spiritual clarity and divine presence that dispels all forms of "darkness"—whether it be ignorance, despair, or adversity. It teaches that self-giving love is the pathway to true flourishing, both individually and communally, echoing the very nature of God who "is light, and in him is no darkness at all" ([1 John 1:5](/1_john/1-5 "1 John 1:5 - God is Light")).

* [Proverbs 11:25](/proverbs/11-25 "The Generous Soul Will Be Prospered")
* [Matthew 25:34-40](/matthew/25-34 "The King's Judgment and Care for the Least of These")
* [James 2:15-17](/james/2-15 "Faith Without Works is Dead")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 58:10 stands as an enduring challenge to the authenticity of our faith and practice. In a world often preoccupied with self-interest and outward appearances, this verse calls us to a radical reorientation: to "draw out our soul"—our very essence, resources, and empathy—towards those who are hungry and afflicted. This isn't about occasional charity, but a deep, sustained commitment to seeing and alleviating suffering, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. It compels us to ask if our religious observances are accompanied by genuine compassion and active justice, or if they are merely empty rituals. The promise of "light rising in obscurity" and "darkness becoming as noonday" offers profound encouragement: when we pour ourselves out for others, God promises to illuminate our darkest paths, bring clarity to our confusion, and transform our most challenging circumstances into seasons of profound blessing and divine favor. It assures us that true spiritual vitality and flourishing are found not in self-preservation, but in self-giving for the sake of others.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what practical ways am I currently "drawing out my soul" to the hungry and afflicted in my community or beyond?**
* **What are the "obscurities" or "darkness" in my life or community that I long to see transformed into "noonday" light? How might my active compassion contribute to this transformation?**
* **Am I more focused on outward religious performance or on cultivating an inward heart of genuine empathy and active benevolence?**
* **How can I move beyond passive pity to actively "satisfy" the needs of those who are suffering around me?**

### FAQ
**What does "draw out thy soul" truly mean in this context?**

Answer: "Draw out thy soul" (Hebrew _pûwq nephesh_) signifies a profound and comprehensive act of self-giving. It means to extend one's entire being—not just material possessions, but one's empathy, time, energy, and inner life—to the hungry and afflicted. It's about a deep, personal identification with suffering and an active pouring out of oneself to alleviate it, rather than a detached or superficial offering. This concept is central to understanding the "true fast" God desires in [Isaiah 58](/isaiah/58 "Isaiah 58 - The True Fast").

**Is the "light" promised in this verse primarily about material prosperity?**

Answer: While material prosperity can be a component of God's blessing, the "light" (Hebrew _ʼôwr_) in Isaiah 58:10 is far more comprehensive. It symbolizes divine favor, guidance, clarity, spiritual understanding, joy, and the overcoming of adversity. It signifies a transformation where confusion and distress ("obscurity" and "darkness") are replaced by God's radiant presence and clear direction. It encompasses spiritual flourishing, peace, and the visible manifestation of God's blessing in all aspects of life, as seen in [Psalm 112:4](/psalm/112-4 "Psalm 112:4 - Light for the Upright").

**How does this verse relate to the concept of "karma" or earning God's favor?**

Answer: This verse is not about earning God's favor through good works in a transactional sense, akin to karma. Instead, it describes the natural outcome and divine promise for those who align their lives with God's character and His heart for justice and compassion. It's a principle of spiritual cause and effect rooted in covenant relationship, where obedience flows from a transformed heart and results in God's promised blessings. The true fast is not a means to manipulate God, but an expression of genuine faith that then opens the way for His abundant grace and illumination, as highlighted in [James 2:17](/james/2-17 "James 2:17 - Faith Without Works is Dead").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 58:10 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodied the "true fast" and the radical self-giving it demands. He is the one who truly "drew out His soul" to the hungry and afflicted, not merely with earthly provisions, but by offering His very life as a ransom for many ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). As the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), Jesus satisfied the deepest hunger of humanity—the hunger for righteousness, forgiveness, and reconciliation with God. He became afflicted for our sake, bearing our infirmities and sorrows ([Isaiah 53:4-5](/isaiah/53-4 "Isaiah 53:4-5 - He Was Wounded for Our Transgressions")), so that our "darkness" of sin and spiritual death could be transformed. Indeed, Jesus declared Himself to be the [Light of the World](/john/8-12 "John 8:12 - Jesus, the Light of the World"), promising that those who follow Him "will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." Through His sacrifice and resurrection, the deepest "obscurity" of humanity's fallen state was overcome, and the "darkness" of sin was turned into the "noonday" brilliance of God's grace and eternal life, ushering in a new covenant where God's Spirit empowers believers to live out this same self-giving love ([Galatians 2:20](/galatians/2-20 "Galatians 2:20 - Christ Lives in Me")). Thus, the promise of light rising in obscurity is not just for individual acts of charity, but for the entire world redeemed by the radiant glory of Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 11:24

¶ There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and [there is] that withholdeth more than is meet, but [it tendeth] to poverty.

Proverbs 11:25

¶ The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

Isaiah 58:7

[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?

Isaiah 58:8

¶ Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward.

Isaiah 42:16

And I will bring the blind by a way [that] they knew not; I will lead them in paths [that] they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them.

Job 11:17

And [thine] age shall be clearer than the noonday; thou shalt shine forth, thou shalt be as the morning.

Psalms 37:6

And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.