8. Daughter Zion is abandonedlike a shelter in a vineyard,like a shack in a cucumber field,like a besieged city.
9. If the Lord of Hosts had not left us a few survivors, we would be like Sodom,we would resemble Gomorrah.
10. Hear the word of the Lord, you rulers of Sodom!Listen to the instruction of our God,you people of Gomorrah!
11. “What are all your sacrifices to Me? ”asks the Lord.“I have had enough of burnt offerings and ramsand the fat of well-fed cattle;I have no desire for the blood of bulls,lambs, or male goats.
12. When you come to appear before Me,who requires this from you —this trampling of My courts?
13. Stop bringing useless offerings. Your incense is detestable to Me.New Moons and Sabbaths, and the calling of solemn assemblies —I cannot stand iniquity with a festival.
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.