17. Learn to do right; seek justice.Defend the oppressed.Take up the cause of the fatherless;plead the case of the widow.
18. ‘Come now, let us settle the matter,’says the Lord.‘Though your sins are like scarlet,they shall be as white as snow;though they are red as crimson,they shall be like wool.
19. If you are willing and obedient,you will eat the good things of the land;
20. but if you resist and rebel,you will be devoured by the sword.’For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.
21. See how the faithful cityhas become a prostitute!She once was full of justice;righteousness used to dwell in her –but now murderers!
22. Your silver has become dross,your choice wine is diluted with water.
23. Your rulers are rebels,partners with thieves;they all love bribesand chase after gifts.They do not defend the cause of the fatherless;the widow’s case does not come before them.
24. Therefore the Lord, the Lord Almighty,the Mighty One of Israel, declares:‘Ah! I will vent my wrath on my foesand avenge myself on my enemies.