9. Zion would have disappearedlike Sodom and Gomorrah,if the Lord All-Powerfulhad not let a fewof its people survive.
10. You are no betterthan the leaders and peopleof Sodom and Gomorrah!So listen to the Lord God:
11. “Your sacrificesmean nothing to me.I am sick of your offeringsof rams and choice cattle;I don't like the bloodof bulls or lambs or goats.
12. “Who asked you to bring all thiswhen you come to worship me?Stay out of my temple!
13. Your sacrifices are worthless,and incense is disgusting.I can't stand the evil you doon your New Moon Festivalsor on your Sabbathsand other times of worship.
14. I hate your New Moon Festivalsand all others as well.They are a heavy burdenI am tired of carrying.
15. “No matter how much you pray,I won't listen.You are too violent.
16. Wash yourselves clean!I am disgustedwith your filthy deeds.Stop doing wrong
17. and learn to live right.See that justice is done.Defend widows and orphansand help those in need.”
18. I, the Lord, invite youto come and talk it over.Your sins are scarlet red,but they will be whiterthan snow or wool.
19. If you willingly obey me,the best crops in the landwill be yours.
20. But if you turn against me,your enemies will kill you.I, the Lord, have spoken.
21. Jerusalem, you are likean unfaithful wife.Once your judges were honestand your people lived right;now you are a cityfull of murderers.
22. Your silver is fake,and your wineis watered down.
23. Your leaders have rejected meto become friends of crooks;your rulers are lookingfor gifts and bribes.Widows and orphansnever get a fair trial.
24. I am the Lord All-Powerful,the mighty ruler of Israel,and I make you a promise:you are now my enemy,and I will show my angerby taking revenge on you.
25. I will punish you terriblyand burn away everythingthat makes you unfitto worship me.