14. But I acted so that my name would not be dishonored among the nations who had watched me bring the Israelites out ⌊of Egypt⌋.
15. I also swore an oath to them in the desert. I swore that I would not bring them into the land that I had promised to give them. This land is the most beautiful land, a land flowing with milk and honey.
16. They rejected my rules, and they didn’t live by my laws. They dishonored the days to worship me, because their hearts chased disgusting idols.
17. But I had compassion on them. I didn’t destroy them or completely wipe them out in the desert.
18. I said to their children in the desert, “Don’t live by the laws of your ancestors. Don’t obey their rules or dishonor yourselves with their disgusting idols.
19. I am the Lord your God. Live by my laws. Obey my rules and follow them.
20. Set apart certain holy days to worship me. This will be a sign between me and you so that you will know that I am the Lord your God.”