9. The things my people do are as depravedas what they did in Gibeah long ago.God will not forget.He will surely punish them for their sins.
10. The lord says, “O Israel, when I first found you,it was like finding fresh grapes in the desert.When I saw your ancestors,it was like seeing the first ripe figs of the season.But then they deserted me for Baal-peor,giving themselves to that shameful idol.Soon they became vile,as vile as the god they worshiped.
11. The glory of Israel will fly away like a bird,for your children will not be bornor grow in the wombor even be conceived.
12. Even if you do have children who grow up,I will take them from you.It will be a terrible day when I turn awayand leave you alone.
13. I have watched Israel become as beautiful as Tyre.But now Israel will bring out her children for slaughter.”
14. O lord, what should I request for your people?I will ask for wombs that don’t give birthand breasts that give no milk.
15. The lord says, “All their wickedness began at Gilgal;there I began to hate them.I will drive them from my landbecause of their evil actions.I will love them no morebecause all their leaders are rebels.
16. The people of Israel are struck down.Their roots are dried up,and they will bear no more fruit.And if they give birth,I will slaughter their beloved children.”
17. My God will reject the people of Israelbecause they will not listen or obey.They will be wanderers,homeless among the nations.