Obey ... - These words are not found verbatim in the Pentateuch, but are a summary of its principles. Sacrifice is never the final cause of …

But this thing commanded I them. —The words that follow are a composite quotation, partly from the lately re-found Deuter…

Since the day that your fathers came forth out of the land of Egypt unto this day I have even sent unto you all my servants the prophets, daily…

The Prophet here taunts the Jews for being so diligent in their attention to sacrifices, while they had no care for piety. Therefore, he says by wa…

But this thing commanded I them, saying
This was the sum and substance of what was then commanded, even obedience to…

God shows that obedience was required of them. What God commanded was, Hearken diligently to the voice of the Lord thy God. The promise is…

1. First, the prophet sets aside their confidence in sacrifices. He reveals God’s perspective with the words, add burnt offerings to you…