4 Heb “but without me”; “without asking my permission”; “without consulting me.”
5 Heb “but I did not know”; “but without my knowledge.”
6 Heb “in order to be cut off.” The text gives the impression that they made the idols for this purpose, but the language is ironic and sarcastic, bringing out the futility of their efforts. One could paraphrase, “they made idols … but only so that they might be destroyed.” Though they had other plans for the idols, God’s judgment would bring their intentions to naught.

In other versions

They made kings, but not through me.

They set up princes, but I knew it not.

With their silver and gold they made idols

for their own destruction.

They set up kings without my consent;

they choose princes without my approval.

With their silver and gold

they make idols for themselves

to their own destruction.

They have installed kings,

but not through me.

They have appointed leaders,

but without my approval.

They make their silver and gold

into idols for themselves

for their own destruction.

The people have appointed kings without my consent,

and princes without my approval.

By making idols for themselves from their silver and gold,

they have brought about their own destruction.

They appointed kings, but not through me;

they made officials, but without my knowledge.

With their silver and gold

they made idols for themselves

for their own destruction.

They have set up kings, but not by me:

They have made princes, and I knew it not:

Of their silver and their gold have they made them idols,

That they may be cut off.

Public Domain