We keep groaning, all of us, just like bears; and like doves we mournfully keep cooing.” (Isaiah 59:9-11a)

In their longing for relief, they groan loudly like hungry or wounded bears. Some coo pitifully, like lonely doves.

11. Why are Judah’s hopes for justice and salvation in vain?

¹¹ Isaiah is only too aware that the reason for Judah’s plight is revolt against God. He says: “We kept hoping for justice, but there was none; for salvation, but it has stayed far away from us.

Isaiah 59:11b

Since the inhabitants of Judah have not repented, their sins still count against them. Justice has left the land because the people have left Jehovah.