3 Oxen and donkeys knowwho owns and feeds them,but my people won't ever learn.”
4 Israel, you are a sinful nationloaded down with guilt.You are wicked and corruptand have turned from the Lord,the holy God of Israel.
5 Why be punished more?Why not give up your sin?Your head is badly bruised,and you are weak all over.
6 From your head to your toesthere isn't a healthy spot.Bruises, cuts, and open soresgo without careor oil to ease the pain.
7 Your country lies in ruins;your towns are in ashes.Foreigners and strangerstake and destroy your landwhile you watch.
8 Enemies surround Jerusalem,alone like a hutin a vineyardor in a cucumber field.
9 Zion would have disappearedlike Sodom and Gomorrah,if the Lord All-Powerfulhad not let a fewof its people survive.