1 The Lord spoke his word to me,
2 “Go and announce to Jerusalem,
3 Israel was set apart for the Lord.
4 Listen to the Lord’s word, descendants of Jacob,
5 This is what the Lord says:
6 They didn’t ask, “Where is the Lord,
7 I brought them into a fertile land
8 The priests didn’t ask, “Where is the Lord?”
9 “That is why I am bringing charges against you,” declares the Lord,
10 Go over to the coasts of Cyprus, and see.
11 Has any nation ever exchanged gods?
12 Be horrified over this, heaven.
13 “My people have done two things wrong.
14 “Are the people of Israel slaves?
15 Young lions have roared very loudly at them.
16 People from Noph and Tahpanhes have cracked your skulls, Israel.
17 You have brought this on yourself
18 You won’t gain anything by going to Egypt
19 Your own wickedness will correct you,
20 “Long ago you broke off your yoke, tore off your chains,
21 I planted you like a choice grapevine from the very best seed.
22 Even if you wash with detergent and use a lot of soap,
23 “How can you say that you haven’t dishonored yourselves
24 You are like a wild donkey that is used to the desert,
25 Don’t run until your feet are bare and your throats are dry.
26 “As a thief feels ashamed when he’s caught,
27 You call wood your father.
28 Where are the gods that you made for yourselves?
29 “Why do you complain about me?
30 “I have punished your children without results.
31 “Consider the Lord’s word, people of this generation.
32 A young woman can’t forget her jewelry or a bride her veils.
33 You carefully planned ways to look for love.
34 You have the blood from poor and innocent people
35 In spite of all this you say, ‘I’m innocent.
36 You change your mind so easily.
37 You will also leave this place with your hands over your head,