Unimpressed

 Isaiah 58:3–4 (LEB)

3‘Why do we fast, and you do not see it? We humiliate our soul, and you do not notice it?’ Look! You find delight on the day of your fast, and you oppress all your workers!
4Look! You fast to quarrel and strife, and to strike with a wicked fist. You shall not fast as you do today, to make your voice heard on the height.

Fasting was a requirement for Israel on specific days. Though they did fast, it was not done with the right heart attitude and treatment of the people that were part of the nation. They thought that God would honor their fast and be delighted that they were doing it, but he was not impressed because of the way they were treating their fellow man. Quarreling and fighting and oppression of their workers was happening at the same time they were fasting. This was not the correct way to fast, and God was not going to hear their prayers or bless them unless they changed their behavior and started to care for people in need. Religious activities done with the wrong attitude and unchanged behavior that is contrary to what God has required become meaningless activities.