The Message of the Prophets Quotes

“However, perhaps the central concern of Yahweh reflected in the message of the prophets is abuse, oppression, or even the neglect of the underclass, whom the prophets identify as the widow, the orphan, and the alien or foreigner (sometimes the poor are included). This triad (widows, orphans, foreigners) is specifically mentioned eight times in Deuteronomy (10:18; 24:17, 19, 20, 21; 26:12, 13; 27:19). Part of the covenant relationship that Israel had with Yahweh was the command that they care for the underclass, those people who did not have enough political and economic clout in the society to fend for themselves. Deuteronomy required that Israel pay special attention to this group, providing them with justice in the courts as well as food and participation in the worship festivals.”
― Tremper Longman III, The Message of the Prophets: A Survey of the Prophetic and Apocalyptic Books of the Old Testament

“Part of a true relationship with Yahweh is living righteously in an authentic manner (because he is righteous). A critical aspect of this just and righteous lifestyle is a deep concern for other people. It is very important to Yahweh that his people be concerned for social justice, especially for the poor, the orphan, the widow, and the foreigner—those who are at the bottom of the socioeconomic power structure. Likewise, Yahweh repeatedly stresses that religious ritual does not cover up unethical behavior and social injustice. In fact, those who ignore social injustice and yet feel smug and pious due to their religious practices are annoying to Yahweh.”
― Tremper Longman III, The Message of the Prophets: A Survey of the Prophetic and Apocalyptic Books of the Old Testament