17  learn to do well: seek judgment, gladden the oppressed, do justice to the fatherless, plead for the widow. 18  Come now, let us reason together, saith Jehovah: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. 19  If ye be willing and hearken, ye shall eat the good of the land; 20  but if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of Jehovah hath spoken.

21  How is the faithful city become a harlot! It was full of judgment; righteousness used to lodge in it, but now murderers. 22  Thy silver is become dross, thy wine is mixed with water: 23  thy princes are rebellious, and companions of thieves; every one loveth presents, and hunteth after rewards; they judge not the fatherless, and the cause of the widow cometh not unto them. 24  Therefore saith the Lord, Jehovah of hosts, the Mighty One of Israel: Ah! I will ease me of mine adversaries, and avenge me of mine enemies. 25  And I will turn my hand upon thee, and will thoroughly purge away thy dross, and take away all thine alloy;