O verdadeiro jejum: um estudo exegético de Is 58,1-12

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to propose a reading of the book of Isaiah 58,1-12 which deals with a genuine fasting. The prophecy of Trito Isaiah, is intrinsically connected to justice and righteousness. As for the exegetical study the synchronic perspective is used. The study of literary aspect and historical context leads us to situate the perícope at the beginning of post-exilic period around 538-520 b.C. The exiled judean community returns to the homeland, and tries to reconstruct itself at the beginning of the Persian rule. In this context, the prophet s criticism tries to correct the religious practice, the fast as it is practiced, cut off of social solidarity with the fragile groups like those of hungry, naked and homeless. Through eight innovative forms of doing justice and righteousness the text proposes a new fast. Orders the end of all forms of oppression and on the counterpart proposes sharing of bread, clothing and boarding. The proposal goes ahead, asks for sharing of one s own life through a radical solidarity. For those who practice genuine fast, the LORD promises his continuous presence, the necessary protection and a happy future. The dissertation is divided into four parts, all along, the commentary style prevails. The study wants to contribute, the understanding of fasting in present time, in the hopes and problems our society faces today