17 Learn to do what is good.

Pursue justice.ai

Correct the oppressor.D

Defend the rights of the fatherless.

Plead the widow’s cause.

18 “Come, let’s settle this,”a

says the Lord.

“Though your sins are scarlet,

they will be as white as snow;b

though they are crimson red,

they will be like wool.

19 If you are willing and obedient,

you will eat the good things of the land.c

20 But if you refuse and rebel,

you will be devoured by the sword.”d

For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.e

21 The faithful town—

what an adulteressA she has become!

She was once full of justice.

Righteousness once dwelt in her,

but now, murderers!

22 Your silver has become dross to be discarded,

your beerB is diluted with water.

23 Your rulers are rebels,

friends of thieves.f

They all love graft

and chase after bribes.g

They do not defend the rights of the fatherless,

and the widow’s case never comes before them.h

24 Therefore the Lord God of Armies,

the Mighty One of Israel, declares:

“Ah, I will get even with my foes;

I will take revenge against my enemies.i

25 I will turn my hand against youj

and will burn away your dross completely;C

I will remove all your impurities.k