3 “He who slaughters an ox is like one who kills a man;he who sacrifices a lamb, like one who breaks a dog’s neck;he who presents a grain offering, like one who offers pig’s blood;he who makes a memorial offering of frankincense, like one who blesses an idol. These have chosen their own ways,and their soul delights in their abominations;
4 I also will choose harsh treatment for themand bring their fears upon them, because when I called, no one answered,when I spoke, they did not listen; but they did what was evil in my eyesand chose that in which I did not delight.”
5 Hear the word of the Lord,you who tremble at his word:“Your brothers who hate youand cast you out for my name’s sakehave said, ‘Let the Lord be glorified,that we may see your joy’;but it is they who shall be put to shame.
6 “The sound of an uproar from the city!A sound from the temple!The sound of the Lord, rendering recompense to his enemies!
7 “Before she was in laborshe gave birth;before her pain came upon hershe delivered a son.
8 Who has heard such a thing?Who has seen such things?Shall a land be born in one day?Shall a nation be brought forth in one moment?For as soon as Zion was in laborshe brought forth her children.
9 Shall I bring to the point of birth and not cause to bring forth?”says the Lord;“shall I, who cause to bring forth, shut the womb?”says your God.