17 learn to do good.Make justice your aim: redress the wronged,hear the orphan’s plea, defend the widow.
18 Come now, let us set things right,says the Lord:Though your sins be like scarlet,they may become white as snow;Though they be red like crimson,they may become white as wool.
19 If you are willing, and obey,you shall eat the good things of the land;
20 But if you refuse and resist,you shall be eaten by the sword:for the mouth of the Lord has spoken!
21 How she has become a prostitute,the faithful city, so upright!Justice used to lodge within her,but now, murderers.
22 Your silver is turned to dross,your wine is mixed with water.
23 Your princes are rebelsand comrades of thieves;Each one of them loves a bribeand looks for gifts.The fatherless they do not defend,the widow’s plea does not reach them.