14. I hate your New Moons and prescribed festivals.They have become a burden to Me;I am tired of putting up with them.
15. When you lift up your hands in prayer, I will refuse to look at you;even if you offer countless prayers,I will not listen. Your hands are covered with blood.
16. “Wash yourselves. Cleanse yourselves. Remove your evil deeds from My sight.Stop doing evil.
17. Learn to do what is good.Seek justice. Correct the oppressor. Defend the rights of the fatherless.Plead the widow’s cause.
18. “Come, let us discuss this,” says the Lord.“Though your sins are like scarlet,they will be as white as snow; though they are as red as crimson,they will be like wool.
19. If you are willing and obedient,you will eat the good things of the land.
20. But if you refuse and rebel,you will be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.
21. The faithful city —what an adulteress she has become!She was once full of justice.Righteousness once dwelt in her —but now, murderers!